An adulterous Greens MP has shockingly quit parliament after news of his affair became public.
Fellow Victorian Greens MP Sam Hibbins, 42, said the welfare of his family and staff was the main reason behind his retirement on Saturday.
The Prahan MP and father of two previously posted a statement on his social media saying that the “brief” relationship had broken the banquet rules.
He said the affair had already ended when news of it became public on November 1.
Mr Hibbins stated in his resignation that his office in Parliament had been vandalized by protesters and that his belongings had been stolen since the news broke.
“It has been an extremely difficult time for us as the public revelation of what was a private matter has taken a significant toll on our family’s mental health,” he wrote.
“It is deeply disturbing that after my resignation from the Greens there was unauthorized access to my office in Parliament House.
‘Personal items, including family and my children’s baby pictures, were vandalized with offensive and threatening graffiti. We believe a number of people are involved in this.’
Prahan MP and father-of-two Sam Hibbins, 42, has quit parliament after his office was vandalized in the aftermath of his affair
Mr Hibbins has already referred the vandalism of his office to the military services and police.
“This has become a concerted campaign against me,” he continued.
“I know many of you will understand that as a father of two young children, I must put the safety and well-being of my family first.”
He said the resignation would be effective for both his seat in the party Prahran and his position in the Victorian Parliament.
“The people of Prahran can choose someone with the energy and focus to work and campaign for them wholeheartedly at such an important time for our local community and society.
“It has been a privilege to serve our community as a local MP and councilor for the past twelve years.
“I would like to thank everyone for their support over the years, including in recent weeks, as we made history and fought for a better future. It has been an extraordinary journey together with our community, but the future for my family cannot wait.”
Mr Hibbins added that had been the highlights of his career standing up for equality, sustainable transport and social and economic justice.
“Standing up for those most in need, including our public housing residents, will always be something I take immense pride in,” he said.