Lisa Singh

 “I'm deeply honoured and inspired by the historic result that has returned me to the Australian Senate.

“This is a victory for thousands of passionate and committed Tasmanians who've made their voices and their values heard.

“It's a win for many Tasmanians, including rank and file members of the Labor Party, who wanted to retain a strong progressive Labor voice in the Senate.

“As well as their vote, many Tasmanians dedicated their time, energy, passion and creativity to fighting for my re-election. They've produced a special and historic result that many experts considered impossible.

“I believe I gave Labor the best chance of winning as many Labor seats as possible. The strong Labor senate vote reflects that. Winning five Labor senators is indeed a fantastic result. 

 “A lot of Tasmanians voted for a Labor Senator for the first time in this election and I want to thank them for putting their trust in me. 

“I'm deeply grateful to those many Tasmanians, both inside and outside the Labor Party, who've given me a chance to continue in Australian politics. I look forward to continuing to fight for the values and principles that first led me into politics a decade ago.

“I won't be dwelling on this result, but getting straight back to work. Whether it's fighting for stronger action against climate change, a fairer go for low-income Australians and a more compassionate attitude towards refugees, there's simply too much at stake.

“Having five Labor Senators and three new Lower House MPs elected in Tasmania is a fantastic result. Tasmanians clearly recognised that Labor had better and fairer policies than the Liberals. I'm pleased to have contributed to that strong result for Labor.

"There is much work ahead in holding the Turnbull Government to account. The future of our schools, hospitals, environment, Medicare, science and research jobs, arts sector, and public broadcaster will all need protecting. We will fight tirelessly to do so.

“I’m looking forward to joining my Federal Labor colleagues, including newcomers Justine Keay, Brian Mitchell and Ross Hart, in standing up for the values, principles and policies that matter,” Senator Singh said. 

WEDNESDAY, 27TH JULY 2016