Senator Kate Lundy to quit federal politics at next election

Labor senator Kate Lundy is to quit politics.

Senator Lundy said she had decided not to contest the ACT Senate seat at the next federal election, a decision which had come after a period of deep reflection.

"Next March will mark 19 years since I was first elected to represent the ACT in the Australian Senate. I will work with the ACT ALP to ensure a smooth transition over the next six months," she said in a statement.

Senator Lundy, 46, a former union official, was elected to the Senate in 1996, holding a range of opposition and ministerial positions.

She said it had been an honour to serve the people of Canberra for almost two decades.

Senator Lundy said it was important to have a strong opposition to oppose cuts to public service pay and conditions, to protect Medicare and keep universities accessible.

"I am heartened that we have a Federal Labor Leader of the calibre of Bill Shorten and caucus of great depth and substance to take up this fight," she said.