McKim not contesting Greens leadership

Greens Senator Nick McKim at a Senate Estimates hearing at Parliament House in Canberra, Monday, 21 October, 2019. (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas)

Tasmanian Senator Nick McKim has declared he won't be running to become federal leader of the Greens, following Richard Di Natale's shock resignation today.

49-year-old Senator Di Natale announced his intention to retire from parliament altogether to spend more time with his family, in particular his two sons aged 11 and 9.

The move immediately spills his position as Greens leader and those of co-deputy leaders Larissa Waters and MP Adam Bandt, who's already put his hand up for the role.

"I will be standing for Greens Leader. Thank you Richard for your leadership and service to Aust. I look forward to talking with my colleagues about how we share leadership across the House & Senate as we fight the climate emergency and inequality with a Green New Deal," Mr Bandt tweeted today. 

Shortly afterwards, Mr McKim confirmed he wouldn't be throwing his hat in the ring, instead getting behind Bandt.

"I can confirm I will not be contesting the Leadership. Adam is the right person to lead us," he said. 

The new leadership will be voted on by the 10 members tomorrow.

Dr. Richard Di Natale has been leader of the Greens for 5 years and says he's incredibly proud of his achievements.

"...to see marriage equality become law. We've now got a national anti-corruption watchdog passing with the support of the Senate - it was the Greens for decades who have been leading the charge on that. I think of the Banking Royal Commission...again it was the Greens who were a driving force behind that. The Royal Commission into the Disability Sector, medicinal cannabis....we've taken on some hard issues." 

Tasmanian Greens Leader Cassy O'Connor has paid tribute to Dr Di Natale.

"He's been a wonderful leader. He's thoughtful, kind and deeply intelligent," she said.