NSW leader Mike Baird makes shock move to quit

Just halfway through his Government’s term, New South Wales Premier Mike Baird has announced he’s quitting politics saying his family’s ill health was a major factor in his shock decision.

“After 10 years in public life, three years as Treasurer and three years as Premier, I think now is the right time to do this,” Baird said in Sydney, after unexpectedly releasing a statement via social media.

The health woes of his family had weighed heavily on the decision, which had been made in close consultation with his wife Kerryn, Baird said.

“There is a strong personal cost that comes in public life,” he said, his eyes tearing up as he looked at his wife and three children during the media conference.

“I’ve probably felt that more than any other time in the past few months. My father and my mother and my sister are going through a very serious health challenge and, to be honest, at times I have been in pain not being able to spend the time that I should.”

The Liberal Party will elect a new leader and premier at a party room meeting next week, with Treasurer Gladys Berejiklian tipped to win.

While it had been a long, tough battle at times, Baird said he was confident he had done all he could for the Australian state.

“There’s a number of policy decisions we’ve made that I strongly believe make a huge difference to people’s lives and, you know, I’ve given my best. I’ve given my all. I mean, there is nothing left. I have worked as hard as I possibly can for the people of this state.”

He touched on the economy, infrastructure, education and social welfare as his key legacies to the state.

The once-most popular politician in the country went through a tough year in 2016 with issues including the controversial greyhound racing ban, council amalgamations and lock-out laws that divided public opinion.

Baird said he was confident the coalition could win the next state election in 2019. “Every organisation needs to refresh . . . I think refreshing now gives a new premier two years, an opportunity for them to put their mark on the government.”

The former Sydney investment banker would not speculate on his future employment. Baird’s resignation will also a trigger a byelection for the seat of Manly in Sydney’s north.