Dutton reveals his future plans for Federal politics as election looms

Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton has finally revealed his hand on whether he intends to contest the next election after a 20-year career in federal politics.

Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton has confirmed for the first time he will “absolutely” contest the next election, putting an end to rumours in Canberra he could pull up stumps on his 20-year career.

It comes as Labor endorsed Ali France for a second run at Dickson, with the candidate having moved to the electorate after controversy in the previous campaign.

Mr Dutton told The Courier-Mail he will contest the next election in his northern suburbs electorate.

“I am a proud part of Scott Morrison’s team. Anthony Albanese would be a disaster for this country,” he said.

“That’s the choice people will have to make in Dickson at the next election which I will absolutely be contesting.”

Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton has confirmed he will contest the next Federal election in the seat of Dickson. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Gary Ramage

Mr Dutton was first elected to Parliament in 2001, having won six elections since then.

There was talk in the party last year he could be moved to the Defence portfolio, but retained Home Affairs in the reshuffle in December.

Meanwhile, Opposition leader Anthony Albanese announced on Friday that Ms France would be Labor’s candidate for Dickson.

The disability advocate and mother-of-two who lost her leg when a car hit her in a Brisbane shopping centre car park ten years ago this May, went on to become an advocate for those with a disability as well as a champion athlete, competing in international outrigging events.

Ms France was criticised by Mr Dutton for not having a residential address in Dickson in the last poll said she had bought a house inside the boundaries.

“I have actually brought a house that is really close to my current house, and it has a bit of work to do on it but I am really excited about it.’’

Speaking at a child care centre in Albany Creek, Mr Albanese said Ms France was an “outstanding candidate”.

Opposition leader Anthony Albanese and Labor’s Dickson candidate Ali France at Goodstart Early Learning Albany Creek. Child with Mr Albanese is Ellie Kendall aged 3. Picture: Annette Dew

“She is someone of courage and tenacity, her life story is inspirational,” he said.

Mr France said child care costs would be a key focus of her campaign, partly because they were a key consideration when she was considering getting back into the workforce after having children.

“Affordable child care is so important for those who want to get back into the work force, who want a career and who want enough superannuation to have a comfortable retirement,” she said.