Former minister Ellison exits politics

As he officially quit his upper house post on Friday, Australia's longest-serving justice minister urged the Rudd government to continue the fight against terrorism.

Senator Chris Ellison, who was elected to parliament in 1993, finalised his exit on
Friday after announcing his decision to leave politics last September.
He plans to work in the private sector.
In a parting statement, Senator Ellison said he was very fortunate to have been one
of the longest serving ministers in the Howard government.
"I have been proud to have introduced new measures to provide greater protection for
our nation's borders, as well as strong national law enforcement capabilities," he
said.
Senator Ellison said during his time as justice and customs minister Australia had
dealt with challenges including terrorism and border incursions.
"These challenges will continue and must be strongly addressed by any Australian
government," he said.
Senator Ellison said Australia's ability to withstand the global economic crisis
would be diminished if mistakes were made in workplace relations and emissions
trading policies.
Vet and former Rottnest Island Authority chief executive, Chris Back, will replace
Senator Ellison.