The former Chief Minister of the Northern Territory has announced his resignation from politics, almost one year after he was rolled for the top job.
Terry Mills has sat on the backbench since being ousted by Adam Giles while on a trade trip to Japan last March.
He had only been six months into the role after the Country Liberals won back government after 11 years in opposition.
In a move unanticipated by his colleagues, Mr Mills announced his departure from politics in Parliament on Thursday night.
"I have concluded it is time to go and provide the opportunity for another to serve as Member for Blain," Mr Mills said, News Corp reported.
He has held his seat since entering politics in a by-election in 1999, making him the NT Parliament's longest serving member.
Since his dumping there have been rumours of a return to leadership, but in September Mr Mills said he was considering his position and would "not repeat the blood feuds of Rudd and Gillard".
Chief Minister Adam Giles said he and the party were sad to see Mr Mills announce his retirement.
"I hope he can continue to contribute to the development and prosperity of the Northern Territory into the future," he said in a statement.
Mr Mills said he plans to work in Indonesian-Australian affairs, and Mr Giles acknowledged his close connections "with our good friends and neighbours to the north", especially in Indonesia.
"I wish him well in life after politics," Mr Giles said.
Mr Mills' retirement takes effect immediately and a date for a by-election will be set.
