Statement from David Elliott MP

With the abolition of my Baulkham Hills electorate and advice that I cannot be accommodated in the new seat of Castle Hill on factional grounds, I have today advised my community that I will not be re contesting the 2023 State Election.

I will not be publishing a dissertation of what I have, or haven’t, achieved over my 12 years in Parliament. That’s a job for my constituents.

I simply want to offer my thanks to three groups.

Firstly, the people of Baulkham Hills have given me fantastic support and encouragement. Nicole and I moved to The Hills Shire when I discharged from the Army more than twenty years ago and we immediately felt welcomed. It’s an honour to be the last Member for Baulkham Hills.

Secondly, to the 200,000 police and corrections officers, volunteer and salaried fire fighters, emergency services and transport personnel who I have represented in Cabinet over eight years I offer my thanks and best wishes. All of this could not have been done without the tireless work of my ministerial and electorate staff. They deserve the Victoria Cross.

Needless to say whilst I may not be continuing as the Veterans Minister I won’t be leaving this honourable fraternity. It’s been a privilege.

Finally, to Nicole, Lachlan and William. The burden of public life is heaviest on those we love. Whilst the boys and I have always had a good giggle at the emotion and thought invested into the “constructive feedback” I’ve sometimes attracted, I know Nicole often took it personally. Her loyalty has been inspirational.

Having spent nearly two decades serving my country in both the military and the NSW Parliament, I leave public service content that I’ve done the best job I could.