Liberal MLA for Brindabella, Nicole Lawder has announced she will not contest the upcoming ACT election in October next year and will retire from politics at the end of the term.

Ms Lawder, who was elected in 2013 and served as Deputy Leader of the Opposition between 2016-2020 said it had been a privilege to represent the people of Tuggeranong for over a decade and she is looking forward to taking on new challenges.

“I would like to thank the residents of Tuggeranong for putting their faith in me, and inviting me into their lives, sharing their hopes and dreams and challenges,” Ms Lawder said.

“It has been an honour to assist them whenever I could.”

Opposition Leader Elizabeth Lee said Nicole will be a big loss not only for the Canberra Liberals but the entire Brindabella electorate and the people of Canberra.

“Nicole has been a champion for the people of Brindabella for over the past 10 years,” Ms Lee said.

“Her dedication to her constituents has been unwavering and I know she will be sadly missed by the people in Brindabella.

“Nicole came into the Assembly with a depth of experience in community, public and private roles, most notably as CEO of Homelessness Australia and the Deafness Forum of Australia.

“Even before entering politics, Nicole’s dedication and passion for her community was strong having served on many boards including the Tuggeranong Football Club and volunteering for organisations such as Ronald McDonald House, Community Fire Unit Fadden and Red Cross.

“For me personally, Nicole has not only been a loyal and committed member of the team but someone with invaluable experience to rely on, especially as Opposition Whip, and as a senior woman MLA in the Canberra Liberals team.

“I know that Nicole will give her very best to whatever she chooses as her next challenge. In the meantime, Nicole will remain a very dedicated and important part of the Canberra Liberals over the next twelve months as we work hard to deliver a change of government in October 2024.

“Thank you, Nicole, for your service to the people of Brindabella and to your dedication to the Canberra Liberals,” Ms Lee concluded.