Ex minister Parker to quit NSW politics

Robyn Parker has become the third NSW coalition MP to announce their retirement this week.

Maitland MP Robyn Parker

Ex-environment minister Robyn Parker has said she won't recontest her seat at the next NSW election. (AAP)

Former environment minister Robyn Parker won't recontest her seat in the March election, becoming the third coalition MP to announce their retirement this week.

The Liberal MP for Maitland says it's now time for her to explore new career challenges away from politics.

"As recent events have shown, I leave my political career with my head held high and my integrity unblemished," she said on Friday, in an apparent reference to her recent appearance before the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC).

She became one of the only coalition MPs to leave the ICAC witness stand unscathed when she gave evidence in August, after former developer and Newcastle Mayor Jeff McCloy told the watchdog he may have given her money in the lead-up to the 2011 election.

Ms Parker told the commission the money was not for her election campaign but for a CD the family helped produce for their seriously ill son Dylan who had a "golf ball sized tumour" in his head.

Ms Parker thanked her husband and children for their support throughout her political career.

"Public life is challenging for families and I am so very grateful to mine for their unwavering support and love," she said.

By next year's general election, Ms Parker would have served 12 years in parliament.

Her announcement comes two days after former energy minister Chris Hartcher and deputy premier Andrew Stoner announced their retirements.

The ICAC is investigating Mr Hartcher over allegations he masterminded a plan to funnel illegal donations.

Mr Stoner's retirement is due to family reasons.


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