Julie Bishop splits from partner David Panton after eight years: report

Former Minister for Foreign Affairs and deputy Liberal leader Julie Bishop has reportedly split from her partner of eight years, Sydney property developer David Panton.

Bishop and Panton publicly confirmed their romance in 2014 and recently travelled together to London to meet with Prince Charles for a banquet for his charity The Prince's Trust.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Panton's rep said he had ended the relationship on Friday.

"I'm going to be focused on living in Manly and Melbourne for the foreseeable future," Panton said in a statement. "I wish Julie all the best in her ongoing stellar career."

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The former politician has not made a statement on her relationship with Panton and 9Honey has reached out for comment.

Panton, 61, met Bishop, 65, when she was still serving as Australia's Minister for Foreign Affairs.

During their relationship, the pair frequented red carpet events and celebrity gatherings – including the 2018 wedding of Karl Stefanovic and Jasmine Yarbrough.

The former couple also maintained a long-distance relationship while Bishop lived in Perth and Panton in Sydney.

In an interview with the Sydney Morning Herald in 2019, Bishop spoke about their decision to remain in different cities during their courtship.

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"[David and I] meet constantly, travel together and travel overseas to keep it fresh," she said. "I think long-distance relationships can be a lot of fun."

Prior to her relationship with Panton, Bishop dated the Lord Mayor of Perth, Peter Nattrass, for 12 years.

She was also married to property developer Neil Gillon from 1983 to 1988.

Since stepping down from politics in February 2019, Bishop has embarked on several new surprising career ventures.

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In May this year, the ex-politician announced she had partnered with US skincare and makeup brand Estee Lauder.

She also took up the position of chancellor of the Australian National University in 2020.

Bishop spoke about the current political climate during Channel Nine's election coverage in May and criticised her former party for failing to reach female voters.

"Women did not see their concerns and interests reflected in a party led by Scott Morrison in coalition with Barnaby Joyce," she said.