Brief
Veteran NSW Labor MP Hugh McDermott resigns ahead of 2027 state election
McDermott, a parliamentary secretary and former barrister, said he will not contest the 2027 election, amid reports the party is urging male backbenchers to retire.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Veteran NSW Labor MP Hugh McDermott announced on 1 October 2026 that he will step down before the 2027 state election, becoming the first male MP to leave as the party seeks a higher proportion of women in parliament.
What happened
In an email to constituents, McDermott said he will not stand as the Labor candidate for the western Sydney seat of Prospect at the next election. He highlighted his 12‑year parliamentary service and pledged to continue serving the community in a different role.
What the reports add
The article notes that the resignation follows a masthead report that Labor headquarters is considering asking male backbenchers to retire to meet gender‑quota targets. Sources close to the party said McDermott was encouraged to retire because he was unlikely to win preselection and had lost numbers in his electorate. Party insiders denied any financial incentive was offered.
What was said
McDermott wrote, “After careful consideration, I have decided not to stand as the Labor candidate for Prospect at the 2027 state election. Public service is an integral part of who I am, and I will continue to add value to my community in a different role.” He also thanked his wife and daughters but did not mention Premier Chris Minns.
How it came about
Labor’s gender‑quota rules, in place for several years, require a minimum percentage of seats to be held by women. The quota reached a 50 % split last year, meaning two male MPs would need to make way. Sussex Street, the party’s headquarters, has been meeting with male MPs to gauge retirement willingness, and McDermott’s exit is expected to be followed by other veterans.
Key facts
- Hugh McDermott announced his resignation on 1 Oct 2026. (smh.com.au)
- He will not contest the 2027 NSW state election for the Prospect seat. (smh.com.au)
- Labor is urging male backbenchers to retire to meet gender‑quota targets. (smh.com.au)
- Party sources said McDermott was unlikely to win preselection and lost numbers in his electorate. (smh.com.au)
- Labor’s gender quota reached a 50 % split in 2025, requiring two male MPs to step aside. (smh.com.au)
Sources
- [1] smh.com.au — originally reported as “Hugh McDermott resigns: Veteran NSW Labor MP to step down before state election”
