Sarah Hanson-Young (SA, Australian Greens) | Hansard source

I will just give a short contribution because I'm sure Birmo's own colleagues really want to have an opportunity. I want to say, being a fellow South Australian, what a wonderful time it has been to work in this place alongside Senator Birmingham. From his work on the Murray-Darling, to marriage equality—and Penny is absolutely right; the role that Simon played in that debate very early on was pivotal, and I don't think we would have actually got what we needed without Birmo's dedication to that issue. Climate, of course, has always been something that Senator Birmingham has spoken passionately about, and I understand that it's probably more passionate internally than we ever hear on the outside. I also remember the tussle over the education policy when Senator Birmingham was education minister. We had some interesting conversations at that time. I'm not sure if I'm allowed to say this, but I think we both wanted to take the Catholics down a notch.

There's the respectful and considered approach that Simon has taken in this role—the integrity, the honesty and the ability to be a straight shooter. When he tells you what it is that's going to happen and what he thinks, he always follows through. You can take his word, with absolute trust that it will be kept.

I will miss our chats, Birmo, as we fly home at the end of the week, talking and debriefing about how things have gone. I appreciate your counsel on how to deal with some of your pesky Nationals friends, and often the counsel about how to try and manage this place at times when things are really heated and people are very passionate. As Michaelia said, you've always got a calm about you. That calm isn't just reflected back in how you behave with your team; I see it reflected back in how we all then engage across the chamber. I think that that will be sorely missed. You've done a very good job and I thank you for that. I will also miss our annual fun on the dance floor at the media ball. Thank you.