At a Glance

• Senator Marise Payne retires after 26 years in Federal Parliament

• Longest serving female Senator in Australia’s history

• Strong advocate for Western Sydney and Campbelltown infrastructure

• Key contributor to the Western Sydney City Deal and major local projects

Service Across a Generation

On Friday 8 September 2023, The Hon Senator Marise Payne announced her retirement from Federal politics after 26 years of service. Few careers in public life span such a significant period, and fewer still leave such a distinct mark at both national and local levels.

In reflecting on Senator Payne’s contribution, I am reminded that leadership is measured not only by titles held, but by the consistency of purpose over time. Marise served in some of the most complex and demanding portfolios in government, including Foreign Affairs, Defence, Women and Human Services. She is also the longest serving female Senator in Australia’s history, and a steadfast advocate for the rights and opportunities of women.

Yet for many of us in Western Sydney, she was known simply and affectionately as the Senator for Western Sydney.

“Despite holding some of the most complex portfolios in Government, Marise always made time for Campbelltown and Western Sydney.”

A Voice for Western Sydney

Senator Payne understood the importance of Western Sydney as one of the most diverse and dynamic regions in our nation. In her farewell speech, she acknowledged that significance. Those words resonated because they reflected her long standing advocacy.

It was not uncommon to see Marise in Campbelltown for announcements, milestone events or site visits. She approached these visits not as formalities, but as opportunities to engage. I recall occasions where she donned a hard hat and spoke directly with contractors and staff, seeking to understand the complexity of projects and the impact they would have on local residents.

That presence mattered. It demonstrated respect for the community and for the work required to deliver critical infrastructure.

Infrastructure That Shapes Daily Life

As a senior figure in the former Federal Government, Senator Payne and her Cabinet colleagues supported a number of transformative projects for our city.

Her support for the Wedderburn Bridge stands out. This was not a straightforward undertaking. It required careful navigation of environmental sensitivities and cultural heritage considerations while addressing the practical need for safe access during times of flood and fire. For some of our most isolated residents, this project represented security and connection.

She was also instrumental in securing funding for Badgally Road, strengthening east and west connections across our city and improving mobility for residents and businesses alike. More recently, she lent her support to the Campbelltown Sports Centre of Excellence, recognising the importance of sport in fostering community pride and participation.

Each of these projects reflects a broader principle. Infrastructure is not abstract. It shapes how people move, work and live.

The Western Sydney City Deal

Senator Payne played a key role in the development of the Western Sydney City Deal, one of the most complex agreements of its kind. Through the Deal, the Liveability Program funded projects across eight Councils, including the Billabong Parklands here in Campbelltown.

The City Deal model required coordination across levels of government and across council boundaries. It demanded patience, negotiation and a shared vision. The outcomes speak to the value of that collaborative approach.

Her advocacy also extended to the proposed South West Community and Justice Precinct. This important piece of social infrastructure has the potential to bring higher order employment, investment and improved access to family law services for our region. Senator Payne recognised that economic growth, human rights and access to justice are interconnected.

National Leadership and Resilience

While we reflect on her local impact, it is important to acknowledge the national significance of her work. Senator Payne’s achievements across Defence and Foreign Affairs are well documented. From strengthening defence capability to contributing to the establishment of the AUKUS partnership, she operated in arenas that required composure and strategic insight.

Her leadership of the Human Services portfolio saw improvements to payments infrastructure that affect millions of Australians. These reforms may not always attract headlines, but they shape the everyday functioning of government.

Throughout times of challenge and global uncertainty, her resilience was evident. She confronted difficult issues directly and upheld the responsibilities of her office with professionalism.

A Model of Democratic Service

What has always struck me is that despite the weight of her national responsibilities, Senator Payne remained attentive to local concerns. That balance reflects a deep respect for democratic representation.

She did not shy away from contentious issues, nor did she retreat from engagement. In doing so, she modelled a standard of conduct in public life that values dialogue and accountability.

Reflection

Twenty six years in Federal Parliament represents more than longevity. It represents sustained service through changing governments, shifting priorities and evolving public expectations. On behalf of myself and the community of Campbelltown, I congratulate Senator Marise Payne on her distinguished career and thank her for her enduring support of our city and Western Sydney. Her contribution reminds us that effective leadership combines national vision with local commitment, and that true service leaves a lasting imprint on place.

Read the original Mayoral Minute here: 16. Recognising a Career Well Served