An emotional Kevin Rudd says he will stay on and contest the next election and appeared to throw his hat in the ring for a Cabinet role by promising to help the party in “any manner of which I can be of assistance”.
Rudd, who apologised for “blubbering” during his farewell speech, said he was proud of his achievements during his short-term, singling out his achievements in areas including industrial relations, health reform, welfare reform and economic management.
“I am proud of the fact that we kept Australia out of the global recession,” Rudd said as he fought back tears.
“I was elected by the people of this country to bring back a fair go for all. I have given it my all.”
While Rudd was clearly hurting, his refused to hit out at new Prime Minister Julia Gillard and the factional heavyweights who unseated him.
Instead, he said he would contest the next election and would be “dedicating my every effort to re-electing this Labor Government”.
“They are a good team led by a good Prime Minister. I will serve it any manner of which I can be of assistance.”
It is not clear whether Rudd will push for a seat on the front bench of Gillard’s new ministry, although Rudd’s knowledge in the area of international affairs means he would be suited to roles such as foreign minister or trade minister.
James was the editor and publisher of SmartCompany and LeadingCompany for five years. He is now the Australian Financial Review‘s companies & markets editor, and a former BRW editor.
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