NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard announces retirement from politics

NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard has announced he will retire from politics at next year’s state election after three decades in parliament.

Mr Hazzard said it was “time for a new beginning” as he confirmed he would not contest his seat in March, bringing his tenure as the member for Wakehurst to a close after 32 years.

He described his six years as health minister, half of which was largely occupied with the COVID-19 pandemic, as “the best of times and the worst of times”.

“[I]t is time to focus on my family and new pursuits outside of government,” he said on Monday night.

“This period of political life has been very demanding. As my staff pointed out, Victoria has had four health ministers during this time, and Queensland and Tasmania three.

“First and foremost, I want to thank my wife and my family for their support, especially over these past three COVID-challenged years.”

Mr Hazzard has been a frontbencher in the Liberal government for 12 years, having also served in the family and community services, infrastructure and planning portfolios.

The 71-year-old was also appointed as Attorney-General and justice minister in the Mike Baird ministry.

Current Premier, Dominic Perrottet, thanked his “friend” for three decades of service to the state.

“In the halls of NSW Parliament, Brad has been a breath of effervescent energy, colour and life, and a generous mentor and friend to many members, both within the government, and across the political aisle,” he said.

“Above all, Brad has been a tireless and committed advocate for people right across our state, and especially for his local constituents in Wakehurst.”

Mr Hazzard’s announcement makes him the latest senior government figure who has decided leave politics in the lead up to the March election.

It comes one day after Transport Minister David Elliott revealed he would not continue after the election.

Others who have announced their departures include Cities Minister Rob Stokes, Customer Services Minister Victor Dominello and Corrections Minister Geoff Lee.

Former ministers Melinda Pavey and Shelley Hancock are also stepping away from politics next year.

The Coalition government had already lost a host of senior figures during this term, with former premier Gladys Berejiklian, former deputy premier John Barilaro, ex-transport minister Andrew Constance and arts minter Don Harwin all departing.