I thank Sam Dastyari for his service to the parliament, to the Australian Labor Party and for his support in the Senate.
Sam has made the right decision in stepping down.
Sam brought to the Senate tenacity, determination and campaigning skills that shone a light on issues that the Government would rather have swept under the carpet.
His tireless advocacy on behalf of victims of Australias banks, passionate and courageous opposition to racial and religious intolerance and determination to expose multinational tax avoidance are all achievements he can be proud of.
He had a rare ability to communicate on these issues to many who were otherwise disengaged from politics.
Sam has my best wishes for the next chapter in his life.