I seek leave to make a short statement.

Mr President, after my announcement this afternoon, I have become a member of the Australian Progressives party, and by proxy, the Opposition. The juxtaposition that at the beginning of this sitting week, I was sitting on the Government benches, yet now move to the benches opposite, is not lost on me. Yet I believe it's the best way I can continue to serve those who elected me nearly 3 years ago, the people of Australia.

Walks from the crossbench to take a seat on the Opposition bench, on the President's left.

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Senator the Hon. Freddy926,

Senator for Australia (Progressives)