Since he was elected to the Australian Senate in 1998, Senator Joseph Ludwig has represented Labor and Queenslanders with distinction.
Senator Joseph Ludwig has continued that legacy in his selfless decision to make way for the next generation at the upcoming Federal Election.
A Queenslander from Longreach, Joseph Ludwig has dedicated his entire working life to standing up for working Queenslanders and their families.
For almost 18 years, Senator Ludwig has been an integral part of the Labor team, both in Opposition and in Government.
Senator Ludwig has been committed to integrity and transparency reform throughout his time in the Senate, as well as the removal of legislation which was discriminatory to the rights of the LGBTI community.
As Shadow Attorney General, as Special Minister of State, Minister for Human Services, Agriculture and leading the Queensland Floods Recovery, Joseph has always kept faith with the people he serves.
Since the last election, Senator Ludwig has played an important role in providing counsel and advice to Labors Senate team, in mentoring new Labor Senators and in holding the Abbott Government to account through Senate estimates processes.
The Federal Parliamentary Labor Party will forever be grateful for Senator Ludwigs service, and we sincerely thank his wife and family for their contribution too.
At a personal level, we wish to thank Senator Ludwig for his ongoing support and advice.
Senator Ludwig will continue to serve Queensland in the Senate for the duration of his term.