Liberal Democrats Senator David Leyonhjelm will resign from the Senate at the end of February in order to nominate for the NSW Legislative Council.
Senator Leyonhjelm alerted his party to his wish to make the move more than 12 months ago. However, uncertainty over the timing of the federal election along with the need to assure the party's future led to some uncertainty as to whether it was a practical option.
"I'm not in politics for either the money or the glory. My priority has always been to ensure the success of the party and the promotion of its libertarian principles", said Senator Leyonhjelm.
"I am determined that the party maintain the momentum that began with my election in 2013, which has now led to winning seats in the WA and Victoria state parliaments. It's clear that Australian voters are increasingly attracted to a party that promotes low taxes, less regulation and personal responsibility.
"NSW is nanny-state central with its liquor licensing, anti-vaping, lockouts, bicycle helmets, anti-assisted suicide and anti-motorcycle policies, amongst many others. It is also fast becoming a police state. These are issues close to my heart, and I want to try to do something about them.
"As a crossbench Senator I have been effective at negotiating improved outcomes based on a combination of good policy and leveraging my vote, all while maintaining good relations with both government and opposition. I look forward to continuing to do that from the slightly less high-profile environment of the NSW Parliament, with the added benefit of being able to sleep in my own bed every night."
The Liberal Democrats will be announcing its Senate candidates, including candidates for NSW, within the next few weeks.
