After a political career spanning more than 20 years, Michelle O'Byrne still has the drive needed to make a difference.
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Ms O'Byrne has served in both federal and state parliament, and was until recently the deputy leader of the Tasmanian Labor party - and has been a representative for the electorate of Bass the whole time.
"I've had one election loss in that time from my federal seat, so I don't think anyone goes into an election without a fair level of trepidation - it is a big thing to put yourself out there," she said.
"It was an interesting campaign, a difficult campaign for me personally, but I'm very, very pleased to be returned, I love being the member for Bass - and when I do decide not to do it again I will miss it every day".
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Ms O'Byrne reflected on her former parliamentary colleague Jennifer Houston, who was trumped by newcomer Janie Finlay for Labor's second seat in Bass.
"I think it is sad not to have a Palawa person within our parliament, and I think it does lead to that broader conversation of what the parliament looks like and make sure we encourage greater diversity within it," she said, noting there was also a lack of disabled people and those with ethnic backgrounds.
"I'm very sad for Jen, I've lost a seat and I know how distressing it is, and I do wish her well".
Labor's campaign focussed on outreach with community groups and funding promises for areas of need - Ms O'Byrne said this will remain a focus for her and the party going forward, continuing to advocate for them.
Personally, Ms O'Byrne said she wanted to see the housing crisis ease, as well as significant improvements for women.
"I've never been unable to assist people in housing before, it is becoming impossible to do that now," she said.
"In my 21 years I've always been able to get somebody somewhere safe to sleep that night, the last two or three years I haven't been able to - that's devastating.
"There's also a number of policies around making society safer for women that I do want to pursue, that's been a particular passion of mine for years, no-one will be surprised to know that".
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