Ruddock makes 'big announcement' but it's not what everyone was thinking

When veteran Liberal Philip Ruddock announced he had important news, most thought he'd be leaving parliament.

"Obviously resigning," said one of his 3000-plus Twitter followers.

But the 72-year-old isn't going anywhere.

His big announcement? Safari Suit Sitting Days.

Mr Ruddock has pledged to don a khaki suit on parliament's final sitting day of the year to raise money for motor neurone research.

"Many have shown interest in my fondness for safari suits," he says on a fundraising page, adding details of what people would get for donating.

The veteran parliamentarian's original post sent social media into a frenzy this afternoon.

The Father Of The House often shares sepia-toned photos of his younger self and most recently has shared a range of fitness related posts.

He's even launched the "Philip Ruddock Mug" to a sell-out crowd.

"You haven't made it till you have your own mug," he tweeted, and many appear to agree, including the prime minister.

Earlier this year he celebrated 42 years as an MP, calling it the "The Festival Of Philip".

Whatever his critics, Mr Ruddock wants to prove that unlike the `70s safari suit, he's no relic of the past.

And he's not retiring.