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{{Infobox officeholder
{{Infobox officeholder
| honorific-prefix =
| honorific-prefix =
| name = Ricky Muir
| name = Ricky Muir
| honorific-suffix =
| honorific-suffix =
| image = Swearing-in of new Australian Senators 2014 (1) (cropped).jpg

| caption = Muir in July 2014
| office = [[Australian Senate|Senator]] for [[Victoria (Australia)|Victoria]]
| office = [[Australian Senate|Senator]] for [[Victoria (Australia)|Victoria]]
| term_start = 1 July 2014
| term_start = 1 July 2014
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'''Ricky Lee Muir''' (born 25 December 1980) is an Australian politician who served as a [[Australian Senate|Senator]] for [[Victoria (Australia)|Victoria]] from 2014 to 2016.
'''Ricky Lee Muir''' (born 25 December 1980) is an Australian politician who served as a [[Australian Senate|Senator]] for [[Victoria (Australia)|Victoria]] from 2014 to 2016.


Muir was elected to the Senate at the [[2013 Australian federal election|2013 federal election]], standing for the [[Australian Motoring Enthusiast Party]] (AMEP).<ref name="ABCelection">{{cite news|title=Motoring Enthusiast Party member Ricky Muir wins Senate seat|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-01/motoring-enthusiast-ricky-muir-wins-a-seat-in-australian-senate/4991882|newspaper=ABC News|date=October 2013 |accessdate=1 October 2013}}</ref> His election from a primary vote of just 0.51%, along with several similar occurrences, contributed to the abolition of [[group voting ticket]]s in 2016. In October 2013, Muir announced that he would form a voting bloc in the Senate with the [[Palmer United Party]]'s members. His term formally began on 1 July 2014. He failed to win re-election at the [[2016 Australian federal election|2016 election]], following a [[double dissolution]] which cut short his term in office. He joined the [[Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party]] in 2017, standing unsuccessfully in the seat of [[electoral district of Morwell|Morwell]] at the [[2018 Victorian state election]]. He was his party's lead Senate candidate in Victoria at the [[2019 Australian federal election|2019 federal election]].
Muir was elected to the Senate at the [[2013 Australian federal election|2013 federal election]], standing for the [[Australian Motoring Enthusiast Party]] (AMEP).<ref name="ABC News-2013">{{cite news|title=Motoring Enthusiast Party member Ricky Muir wins Senate seat|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-01/motoring-enthusiast-ricky-muir-wins-a-seat-in-australian-senate/4991882|newspaper=ABC News|date=October 2013|accessdate=1 October 2013|archive-date=15 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201115115913/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-01/motoring-enthusiast-ricky-muir-wins-a-seat-in-australian-senate/4991882|url-status=live}}</ref> His election from a primary vote of just 0.51%, along with several similar occurrences, contributed to the abolition of [[group voting ticket]]s in 2016. In October 2013, Muir announced that he would form a voting bloc in the Senate with the [[Palmer United Party]]'s members. His term formally began on 1 July 2014. He failed to win re-election at the [[2016 Australian federal election|2016 election]], following a [[double dissolution]] which cut short his term in office. He joined the [[Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party]] in 2017, standing unsuccessfully in the seat of [[electoral district of Morwell|Morwell]] at the [[2018 Victorian state election]]. He was his party's lead Senate candidate in Victoria at the [[2019 Australian federal election|2019 federal election]].


==Early life==
==Early life==
Muir was born in [[Maffra]], Victoria. He grew up mainly in [[Stratford, Victoria|Stratford]], completing most of his primary education at [[Boisdale Consolidated School]] with a short stint at [[Dargo, Victoria|Dargo]], then later attending secondary school at [[Maffra Secondary College]],<ref>[http://www.businessinsider.com.au/heres-the-maiden-speech-by-victorian-senator-ricky-muir-that-surprised-and-impressed-everyone-2015-3 Ricky Muir's maiden speech to parliament]</ref> leaving school in 1996.<ref>{{cite news|title=Ricky Muir opens up about year on the dole – 9News|url=https://www.9news.com.au/national/2015/03/02/10/10/morrison-open-to-dropping-dole-wait-plan|accessdate=14 April 2018|work=9news.com.au}}</ref>
Muir was born in [[Maffra]], Victoria. He grew up mainly in [[Stratford, Victoria|Stratford]], completing most of his primary education at [[Boisdale Consolidated School]] with a short stint at [[Dargo, Victoria|Dargo]], then later attending secondary school at [[Maffra Secondary College]],<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.businessinsider.com.au/heres-the-maiden-speech-by-victorian-senator-ricky-muir-that-surprised-and-impressed-everyone-2015-3 |title=Ricky Muir's maiden speech to parliament |access-date=19 March 2016 |archive-date=17 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180617043238/https://www.businessinsider.com.au/heres-the-maiden-speech-by-victorian-senator-ricky-muir-that-surprised-and-impressed-everyone-2015-3 |url-status=dead }}</ref> leaving school in 1996.<ref>{{cite news|title=Ricky Muir opens up about year on the dole – 9News|url=https://www.9news.com.au/national/2015/03/02/10/10/morrison-open-to-dropping-dole-wait-plan|accessdate=14 April 2018|work=9news.com.au|archive-date=31 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180731141025/https://www.9news.com.au/national/2015/03/02/10/10/morrison-open-to-dropping-dole-wait-plan|url-status=live}}</ref>


He worked for a leather company making car seats. Around 2009, he moved to Denison, near [[Heyfield, Victoria|Heyfield]], and worked for a sawmill, moving up to manager. Shortly before the election, the sawmill ceased operations and he lost his job.<ref name=theAustralian>{{cite news|last=Le Grand|first=Chip|title=Senate's 'average' guy Ricky Muir parks the enthusiasm|url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/election-2013/senates-average-guy-ricky-muir-parks-the-enthusiasm/story-fn9qr68y-1226715684830#|accessdate=2 October 2013|newspaper=The Australian|date=10 September 2013}}</ref>
He worked for a leather company making car seats. Around 2009, he moved to Denison, near [[Heyfield, Victoria|Heyfield]], and worked for a sawmill, moving up to manager. Shortly before the election, the sawmill ceased operations and he lost his job.<ref name="Le Grand-2013">{{cite news|last=Le Grand|first=Chip|title=Senate's 'average' guy Ricky Muir parks the enthusiasm|url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/election-2013/senates-average-guy-ricky-muir-parks-the-enthusiasm/story-fn9qr68y-1226715684830|accessdate=2 October 2013|newspaper=The Australian|date=10 September 2013|archive-date=10 September 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130910120957/http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/election-2013/senates-average-guy-ricky-muir-parks-the-enthusiasm/story-fn9qr68y-1226715684830|url-status=live}}</ref>


==Political career==
==Political career==


===Entry to politics===
===Entry to politics===
Muir said that as a young man, he was interested in customising cars, but as he gained a family, he moved on to four-wheel drives as a way to explore the countryside. He wanted to keep the country open for four-wheel drives to explore. About four months before the election, he discovered the AMEP on social networking sites. He was preselected for the election without having met the party leaders. He had no political experience. He calls himself an "average Australian" and wanted to make "balanced decision which reflects on hopefully the everyday Australian".<ref name=theAustralian /><ref>{{cite news|title=Ricky Muir not influenced by money in Senate run for Australian Motoring Enthusiast Party|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-09-11/ricky-muir-says-he-was-not-influenced-by-money-in-senate-race/4952406|accessdate=2 October 2013|publisher=ABC News|date=12 September 2013}}</ref>
Muir said that as a young man, he was interested in customising cars, but as he gained a family, he moved on to four-wheel drives as a way to explore the countryside. He wanted to keep the country open for four-wheel drives to explore. About four months before the election, he discovered the AMEP on social networking sites. He was preselected for the election without having met the party leaders. He had no political experience. He calls himself an "average Australian" and wanted to make "balanced decision which reflects on hopefully the everyday Australian".<ref name="Le Grand-2013" /><ref>{{cite news|title=Ricky Muir not influenced by money in Senate run for Australian Motoring Enthusiast Party|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-09-11/ricky-muir-says-he-was-not-influenced-by-money-in-senate-race/4952406|accessdate=2 October 2013|publisher=ABC News|date=12 September 2013|archive-date=8 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131008172930/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-09-11/ricky-muir-says-he-was-not-influenced-by-money-in-senate-race/4952406|url-status=live}}</ref>


===2013 election===
===2013 election===
Muir represented AMEP in Victoria at the [[2013 Australian federal election|2013 federal election]] and won on a record-low primary vote of 0.51 percent or 17,122 first preferences (coming 13th out of 34 groups), getting to the 14.3 percent quota from 23 [[group voting ticket]] party preferences: [[Mutual Party|Bank Reform Party]], [[Australian Fishing and Lifestyle Party]], [[HEMP Party]], [[Shooters and Fishers]], [[Australian Stable Population Party]], [[Senator Online]], [[Building Australia Party]], [[Family First Party]], [[Bullet Train For Australia]], [[Rise Up Australia Party]], [[No Carbon Tax Climate Sceptics]], [[Citizens Electoral Council]], [[Palmer United Party]], [[Democratic Labour Party (Australia)|Democratic Labour Party]], [[Katter's Australian Party]], [[Socialist Equality Party (Australia)|Socialist Equality Party]], [[Australian Sex Party]], [[Australian Voice Party]], [[Wikileaks Party]], Drug Law Reform, Stop CSG, [[Animal Justice Party]], and the Australian Independents Party.<ref>[http://www.abc.net.au/news/federal-election-2013/results/senate/vic/ Victorian 2013 Senate results and preference flows: ABC]</ref><ref>[http://blogs.abc.net.au/antonygreen/2013/09/the-preference-deals-behind-the-strange-election-of-ricky-muir-and-wayne-dropulich-.html The Preference Deals behind the Strange Election of Ricky Muir and Wayne Dropulich: Antony Green ABC 13 September 2013]</ref> The previous record for the lowest successful primary Senate vote for a party's lead candidate was held by the [[Nuclear Disarmament Party]]'s [[Robert Wood (Australian politician)|Robert Wood]] who polled 1.5 percent in New South Wales in 1987, a [[double dissolution]] election. Independent Senator [[Nick Xenophon]] and larger parties including the incoming government are examining changes to the [[group voting ticket]] system.<ref>[http://www.businessspectator.com.au/news/2013/9/8/election/election-coalition-shy-senate-majority Coalition shy of Senate majority: Business Spectator 9 September 2013]</ref><ref>[http://www.watoday.com.au/federal-politics/federal-election-2013/tony-abbott-fires-a-warning-shot-at-micro-parties-in-the-senate-20130909-2tf5b.html Tony Abbott fires a warning shot at micro parties in the Senate: WA Today 9 September 2013]</ref><ref>[http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/2013/09/09/08/50/xenophon-wants-voting-reform Xenophon wants voting reform: NineMSN 9 September 2013] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140117062411/http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/2013/09/09/08/50/xenophon-wants-voting-reform |date=17 January 2014 }}</ref>
Muir represented AMEP in Victoria at the [[2013 Australian federal election|2013 federal election]] and won on a record-low primary vote of 0.51 percent or 17,122 first preferences (coming 13th out of 34 groups), getting to the 14.3 percent quota from 23 [[group voting ticket]] party preferences: [[Mutual Party|Bank Reform Party]], [[Australian Fishing and Lifestyle Party]], [[HEMP Party]], [[Shooters and Fishers]], [[Australian Stable Population Party]], [[Senator Online]], [[Building Australia Party]], [[Family First Party]], [[Bullet Train For Australia]], [[Rise Up Australia Party]], [[No Carbon Tax Climate Sceptics]], [[Citizens Electoral Council]], [[Palmer United Party]], [[Democratic Labour Party (Australia, 1980)|Democratic Labour Party]], [[Katter's Australian Party]], [[Socialist Equality Party (Australia)|Socialist Equality Party]], [[Australian Sex Party]], [[Australian Voice Party]], [[Wikileaks Party]], Drug Law Reform, Stop CSG, [[Animal Justice Party]], and the Australian Independents Party.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/federal-election-2013/results/senate/vic/ |title=Victorian 2013 Senate results and preference flows: ABC |access-date=2 October 2013 |archive-date=1 December 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20231201121211/https://www.abc.net.au/news/elections/federal/2013/guide/senate-vic |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://blogs.abc.net.au/antonygreen/2013/09/the-preference-deals-behind-the-strange-election-of-ricky-muir-and-wayne-dropulich-.html |title=The Preference Deals behind the Strange Election of Ricky Muir and Wayne Dropulich: Antony Green ABC 13 September 2013 |access-date=2 October 2013 |archive-date=15 September 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130915221505/http://blogs.abc.net.au/antonygreen/2013/09/the-preference-deals-behind-the-strange-election-of-ricky-muir-and-wayne-dropulich-.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The previous record for the lowest successful primary Senate vote for a party's lead candidate was held by the [[Nuclear Disarmament Party]]'s [[Robert Wood (Australian politician)|Robert Wood]] who polled 1.5 percent in New South Wales in 1987, a [[double dissolution]] election. Independent Senator [[Nick Xenophon]] and larger parties including the incoming government are examining changes to the [[group voting ticket]] system.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.businessspectator.com.au/news/2013/9/8/election/election-coalition-shy-senate-majority |title=Coalition shy of Senate majority: Business Spectator 9 September 2013 |access-date=2 October 2013 |archive-date=3 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303122927/http://www.businessspectator.com.au/news/2013/9/8/election/election-coalition-shy-senate-majority |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.watoday.com.au/federal-politics/federal-election-2013/tony-abbott-fires-a-warning-shot-at-micro-parties-in-the-senate-20130909-2tf5b.html |title=Tony Abbott fires a warning shot at micro parties in the Senate: WA Today 9 September 2013 |access-date=2 October 2013 |archive-date=31 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160131091322/http://www.watoday.com.au/federal-politics/federal-election-2013/tony-abbott-fires-a-warning-shot-at-micro-parties-in-the-senate-20130909-2tf5b.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>[http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/2013/09/09/08/50/xenophon-wants-voting-reform Xenophon wants voting reform: NineMSN 9 September 2013] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140117062411/http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/2013/09/09/08/50/xenophon-wants-voting-reform |date=17 January 2014 }}</ref>


In October 2013 it was reported that the AMEP's Victorian State Council had been banned by the party's executive from contacting Muir since the election, and that Muir supported the executive's decision to suspend the State Council.<ref name="Victorian branch banned">{{cite news|title=Victorian branch of Australian Motoring Enthusiast Party banned from contacting Senator-elect Ricky Muir|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-08/senator-elect-ricky-muir-not-seen-by-vic-amep-since-election/5008412|accessdate=9 October 2013|publisher=ABC News|date=8 October 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Caldwell|first=Alison|title=Australian Motoring Enthusiast Party closes Victorian branch over 'blatant disregard' for national executive|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-07/amep-shuts-victorian-branch-ricky-muir/5003480|accessdate=9 October 2013|publisher=ABC News|date=8 October 2013}}</ref> The Victorian branch of the party voted to disband itself and expel Muir in July 2014. Both the expulsion and the existence of the Victorian branch after October 2013 were not recognised by the federal party.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Willingham|first1=Richard|title=Victorian branch of Ricky Muir's party tries to revoke his membership|url=http://www.theage.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/victorian-branch-of-ricky-muirs-party-tries-to-revoke-his-membership-20140731-zyzp3.html|accessdate=31 July 2014|work=The Age|date=31 July 2014}}</ref>
In October 2013 it was reported that the AMEP's Victorian State Council had been banned by the party's executive from contacting Muir since the election, and that Muir supported the executive's decision to suspend the State Council.<ref name="Victorian branch banned">{{cite news|title=Victorian branch of Australian Motoring Enthusiast Party banned from contacting Senator-elect Ricky Muir|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-08/senator-elect-ricky-muir-not-seen-by-vic-amep-since-election/5008412|accessdate=9 October 2013|publisher=ABC News|date=8 October 2013|archive-date=8 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131008113614/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-08/senator-elect-ricky-muir-not-seen-by-vic-amep-since-election/5008412|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Caldwell|first=Alison|title=Australian Motoring Enthusiast Party closes Victorian branch over 'blatant disregard' for national executive|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-07/amep-shuts-victorian-branch-ricky-muir/5003480|accessdate=9 October 2013|publisher=ABC News|date=8 October 2013|archive-date=8 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131008113721/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-07/amep-shuts-victorian-branch-ricky-muir/5003480|url-status=live}}</ref> The Victorian branch of the party voted to disband itself and expel Muir in July 2014. Both the expulsion and the existence of the Victorian branch after October 2013 were not recognised by the federal party.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Willingham|first1=Richard|title=Victorian branch of Ricky Muir's party tries to revoke his membership|url=http://www.theage.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/victorian-branch-of-ricky-muirs-party-tries-to-revoke-his-membership-20140731-zyzp3.html|accessdate=31 July 2014|work=The Age|date=31 July 2014|archive-date=31 July 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140731174239/http://www.theage.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/victorian-branch-of-ricky-muirs-party-tries-to-revoke-his-membership-20140731-zyzp3.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


On 10 October 2013 Muir announced he would enter into an alliance with the [[Palmer United Party]].<ref>{{cite web |author=Emma Griffiths |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-10/clive-palmer-joins-forces-with-motoring-enthusiast-ricky-muir-i/5013556 |title=Clive Palmer issues warning to Government as Motoring Enthusiast Ricky Muir joins Senate voting bloc |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=10 October 2013 |accessdate=11 August 2014}}</ref>
On 10 October 2013 Muir announced he would enter into an alliance with the [[Palmer United Party]].<ref>{{cite web |author=Emma Griffiths |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-10/clive-palmer-joins-forces-with-motoring-enthusiast-ricky-muir-i/5013556 |title=Clive Palmer issues warning to Government as Motoring Enthusiast Ricky Muir joins Senate voting bloc |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=10 October 2013 |accessdate=11 August 2014 |archive-date=6 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131106042002/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-10/clive-palmer-joins-forces-with-motoring-enthusiast-ricky-muir-i/5013556 |url-status=live }}</ref>


===Senator===
===Senator===
[[File:Swearing-in of new Australian Senators 2014 (1).jpg|thumb|Muir (second from right) with Governor-General [[Sir Peter Cosgrove]], Lady Cosgrove, and other Senators in 2014]]
[[File:Swearing-in of new Australian Senators 2014 (1).jpg|thumb|Muir (second from right) with Governor-General [[Sir Peter Cosgrove]], Lady Cosgrove, and other Senators in 2014]]


Muir's term in the senate commenced on 1 July 2014.<ref name=aph>{{cite web |url=http://www.aph.gov.au/Senators_and_Members/Parliamentarian?MPID=250024 |title=Former Senator Ricky Muir |work=Senators and Members |publisher=[[Parliament of Australia]] |accessdate=20 March 2019}}</ref> He delivered his maiden speech on 5 March 2015.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Henderson|first1=Anna|title=Ricky Muir uses maiden speech to lash Government over lack of consultation on key policies|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-03-05/senator-ricky-muir-uses-maiden-speech-to-defy-critics/6283732|accessdate=6 March 2015|publisher=ABC News|date=6 March 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Muir|first1=Ricky|title=First Speech|url=http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/genpdf/chamber/hansards/0e04f51c-90a0-44db-b9b2-2bbc9d548cae/0145/hansard_frag.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf|publisher=Parliament of Australia|accessdate=6 March 2015}}</ref>
Muir's term in the senate commenced on 1 July 2014.<ref name=aph>{{cite web |url=http://www.aph.gov.au/Senators_and_Members/Parliamentarian?MPID=250024 |title=Former Senator Ricky Muir |work=Senators and Members |publisher=[[Parliament of Australia]] |accessdate=20 March 2019 |archive-date=25 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141025163701/http://www.aph.gov.au/Senators_and_Members/Parliamentarian?MPID=250024 |url-status=live }}</ref> He delivered his maiden speech on 5 March 2015.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Henderson|first1=Anna|title=Ricky Muir uses maiden speech to lash Government over lack of consultation on key policies|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-03-05/senator-ricky-muir-uses-maiden-speech-to-defy-critics/6283732|accessdate=6 March 2015|publisher=ABC News|date=6 March 2015|archive-date=7 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150307030952/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-03-05/senator-ricky-muir-uses-maiden-speech-to-defy-critics/6283732|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Muir|first1=Ricky|title=First Speech|url=http://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/genpdf/chamber/hansards/0e04f51c-90a0-44db-b9b2-2bbc9d548cae/0145/hansard_frag.pdf;fileType=application%2Fpdf|publisher=Parliament of Australia|accessdate=6 March 2015|archive-date=22 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211122162327/https://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/genpdf/chamber/hansards/0e04f51c-90a0-44db-b9b2-2bbc9d548cae/0145/hansard_frag.pdf;fileType=application/pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>


In an interview by [[Mike Willesee]] broadcast on Channel Seven's Sunday Night program on 8 June 2014, Muir was shown to have considerable difficulty explaining the meaning of the terms "[[Balance of power (parliament)|balance of power]]" and "[[Aftermarket (automotive)|aftermarket]]".<ref>{{cite web|author= Louise Yaxley |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-06-09/ricky-muir-hesitates-becomes-flustered-during-interview/5509114 |title=Motoring Enthusiasts Party senator-elect Ricky Muir stumbles in TV interview |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=9 June 2014 |accessdate=11 August 2014}}</ref> In response, [[Clive Palmer]] asserted that Willesee was a "dickhead" and had a "plum stuck up his arse". Palmer claimed that only a minute of an hour long interview was put to air.<ref>[http://www.smh.com.au/national/clive-palmer-hits-back-at-dickhead-mike-willesee-20140609-zs1kv.html Clive Palmer hits back at 'dickhead' Mike Willesee: SMH 9 June 2014]</ref>
In an interview by [[Mike Willesee]] broadcast on Channel Seven's Sunday Night program on 8 June 2014, Muir was shown to have considerable difficulty explaining the meaning of the terms "[[Balance of power (parliament)|balance of power]]" and "[[Aftermarket (automotive)|aftermarket]]".<ref>{{cite web |author=Louise Yaxley |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-06-09/ricky-muir-hesitates-becomes-flustered-during-interview/5509114 |title=Motoring Enthusiasts Party senator-elect Ricky Muir stumbles in TV interview |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=9 June 2014 |accessdate=11 August 2014 |archive-date=13 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140813131210/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-06-09/ricky-muir-hesitates-becomes-flustered-during-interview/5509114 |url-status=live }}</ref> In response, [[Clive Palmer]] asserted that Willesee was a "dickhead" and had a "plum stuck up his arse". Palmer claimed that only a minute of an hour long interview was put to air.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.smh.com.au/national/clive-palmer-hits-back-at-dickhead-mike-willesee-20140609-zs1kv.html |title=Clive Palmer hits back at 'dickhead' Mike Willesee: SMH 9 June 2014 |access-date=9 June 2014 |archive-date=9 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140609063610/http://www.smh.com.au/national/clive-palmer-hits-back-at-dickhead-mike-willesee-20140609-zs1kv.html |url-status=live }}</ref>


Muir's senior adviser was electoral consultant [[Glenn Druery]], however he was sacked by Muir less than a month later and was escorted out of Parliament. Muir stated that Druery did not "get along with the staff".<ref>[http://www.theage.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/senator-ricky-muir-sacks-chief-of-staff-glenn-druery-20140801-3cyf5.html Senator Ricky Muir sacks chief of staff Glenn Druery: The Age 1 August 2014]</ref> Muir also hired former [[New South Wales]] state politician [[Peter Breen (Australian politician)|Peter Breen]] to advise him on legislation,<ref>[http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-opinion/novice-politician-ricky-muir-undone-by-a-veteran-in-the-business-or-questionable-tactics-20140609-39se4.html Novice politician Ricky Muir undone by a veteran in the business or questionable tactics? SMH 9 June 2014]</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/muir-hires-expollie-to-help-with-legislation-20140701-3b6lg.html | title=Muir hires ex-pollie to help with legislation | work=The Sydney Morning Herald | date=2 July 2014 | accessdate=10 July 2014 | author=Aston, Heath}}</ref> but also sacked him on 6 August 2014.<ref name="Ricky Muir sacks adviser Peter Breen">{{cite news|title=Ricky Muir sacks adviser Peter Breen; third staffer of Motoring Enthusiasts Party senator to depart|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-08-05/second-senior-staffer-leaves-ricky-muirs-office/5650638|accessdate=8 February 2015|publisher=ABC News}}</ref> As of November 2014, five members of Muir's staff had resigned or been sacked.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Massola|first1=James|last2=Aston|first2=Heath|title=Another Ricky Muir staffer hits the road, with five departing in three months|url=http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/another-ricky-muir-staffer-hits-the-road-with-five-departing-in-three-months-20141104-11g4bt.html|accessdate=9 February 2015|work=The Sydney Morning Herald|date=4 November 2014}}</ref>
Muir's senior adviser was electoral consultant [[Glenn Druery]], however he was sacked by Muir less than a month later and was escorted out of Parliament. Muir stated that Druery did not "get along with the staff".<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.theage.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/senator-ricky-muir-sacks-chief-of-staff-glenn-druery-20140801-3cyf5.html |title=Senator Ricky Muir sacks chief of staff Glenn Druery: The Age 1 August 2014 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=2 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140802125646/http://www.theage.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/senator-ricky-muir-sacks-chief-of-staff-glenn-druery-20140801-3cyf5.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Muir also hired former [[New South Wales]] state politician [[Peter Breen (Australian politician)|Peter Breen]] to advise him on legislation,<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-opinion/novice-politician-ricky-muir-undone-by-a-veteran-in-the-business-or-questionable-tactics-20140609-39se4.html |title=Novice politician Ricky Muir undone by a veteran in the business or questionable tactics? SMH 9 June 2014 |access-date=17 June 2014 |archive-date=11 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140611234735/http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-opinion/novice-politician-ricky-muir-undone-by-a-veteran-in-the-business-or-questionable-tactics-20140609-39se4.html? |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/muir-hires-expollie-to-help-with-legislation-20140701-3b6lg.html | title=Muir hires ex-pollie to help with legislation | work=The Sydney Morning Herald | date=2 July 2014 | accessdate=10 July 2014 | author=Aston, Heath | archive-date=6 July 2014 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140706225544/http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/muir-hires-expollie-to-help-with-legislation-20140701-3b6lg.html | url-status=live }}</ref> but also sacked him on 6 August 2014.<ref name="Ricky Muir sacks adviser Peter Breen">{{cite news |date=5 Aug 2014 |title=Ricky Muir sacks adviser Peter Breen; third staffer of Motoring Enthusiasts Party senator to depart |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-08-05/second-senior-staffer-leaves-ricky-muirs-office/5650638 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141225140615/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-08-05/second-senior-staffer-leaves-ricky-muirs-office/5650638 |archive-date=25 December 2014 |accessdate=8 February 2015 |work=[[ABC News (Australia)|ABC News]]}}</ref> As of November 2014, five members of Muir's staff had resigned or been sacked.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Massola|first1=James|last2=Aston|first2=Heath|title=Another Ricky Muir staffer hits the road, with five departing in three months|url=http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/another-ricky-muir-staffer-hits-the-road-with-five-departing-in-three-months-20141104-11g4bt.html|accessdate=9 February 2015|work=The Sydney Morning Herald|date=4 November 2014|archive-date=8 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150108090431/http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/political-news/another-ricky-muir-staffer-hits-the-road-with-five-departing-in-three-months-20141104-11g4bt.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


On 19 November 2014, Muir voted against changes to financial planning laws on which the [[Abbott Government]] and Palmer United Party had reached agreement.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Norman|first1=Jane|title=Jacqui Lambie, Ricky Muir break ranks in 'coalition of common sense' against financial advice laws|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-11-19/labor-greens-crossbench-senators-unite-in-bid-to-overturn-fofa/5902312|accessdate=9 February 2015|publisher=ABC News|date=19 November 2014}}</ref>
On 19 November 2014, Muir voted against changes to financial planning laws on which the [[Abbott government]] and Palmer United Party had reached agreement.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Norman|first1=Jane|title=Jacqui Lambie, Ricky Muir break ranks in 'coalition of common sense' against financial advice laws|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-11-19/labor-greens-crossbench-senators-unite-in-bid-to-overturn-fofa/5902312|accessdate=9 February 2015|publisher=ABC News|date=19 November 2014|archive-date=23 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150123005819/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-11-19/labor-greens-crossbench-senators-unite-in-bid-to-overturn-fofa/5902312|url-status=live}}</ref>


===SFF candidate===
===SFF candidate===
Muir joined the [[Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party]] (SFF) in June 2017.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-06-27/ricky-muir-joins-shooters-fishers-farmers-party-victoria/8654618 |title=Ricky Muir joins Victorian Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party in Gippsland ambassadorial role |first=Richard |last=Willingham |date=27 June 2017 |accessdate=21 May 2018 |publisher=ABC News}}</ref> He contested the [[electoral district of Morwell]] at the [[2018 Victorian state election]], coming fifth with 7.1% of the vote.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/news/politics/ricky-muir-named-shooters-fishers-and-farmers-candidate-for-morwell/news-story/188e370acccd5593e10005d95c60eb80 |title=Ricky Muir named Shooters, Fishers and Farmers candidate for Morwell |date=18 February 2018 |newspaper=[[The Weekly Times]] |accessdate=21 May 2018}}</ref>
Muir joined the [[Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party]] (SFF) in June 2017.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-06-27/ricky-muir-joins-shooters-fishers-farmers-party-victoria/8654618 |title=Ricky Muir joins Victorian Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party in Gippsland ambassadorial role |first=Richard |last=Willingham |date=27 June 2017 |accessdate=21 May 2018 |publisher=ABC News |archive-date=17 May 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180517193031/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-06-27/ricky-muir-joins-shooters-fishers-farmers-party-victoria/8654618 |url-status=live }}</ref> He contested the [[electoral district of Morwell]] at the [[2018 Victorian state election]], coming fifth with 7.1% of the vote.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/news/politics/ricky-muir-named-shooters-fishers-and-farmers-candidate-for-morwell/news-story/188e370acccd5593e10005d95c60eb80 |title=Ricky Muir named Shooters, Fishers and Farmers candidate for Morwell |date=18 February 2018 |newspaper=[[The Weekly Times]] |accessdate=21 May 2018}}</ref>

Muir was the SFF lead candidate for the Senate in Victoria at the [[2019 Australian federal election|2019 federal election]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Sullivan |first1=national rural reporter Kath |title=Former Victorian senator Ricky Muir in comeback bid with Shooters, Fishers and Farmers |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-04-23/ricky-muir-shooters-fishers-farmers-bid-for-senate-spot-victoria/11039256 |accessdate=23 April 2019 |publisher=ABC News |date=23 April 2019 |archive-date=27 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190427053957/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-04-23/ricky-muir-shooters-fishers-farmers-bid-for-senate-spot-victoria/11039256 |url-status=live }}</ref> The party received 1.9% of the vote.<ref>{{cite web |title=Senate Results |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/elections/federal/2019/results/senate |website=ABC News: Australia Votes |access-date=26 February 2021 |date=14 June 2019 |archive-date=1 December 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20231201121241/https://www.abc.net.au/news/elections/federal/2019/results/senate |url-status=live }}</ref>


He contested the [[electoral district of Gippsland East]] at the [[2022 Victorian state election]], coming fourth with 5.83% of the vote.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Gippsland East District results |url=https://www.vec.vic.gov.au/results/state-election-results/2022-state-election-results/results-by-district/gippsland-east-district-results |access-date=2023-02-09 |website=www.vec.vic.gov.au |language=en |archive-date=9 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230209122218/https://www.vec.vic.gov.au/results/state-election-results/2022-state-election-results/results-by-district/gippsland-east-district-results |url-status=live }}</ref>
Muir was the SFF lead candidate for the Senate in Victoria at the [[2019 Australian federal election|2019 federal election]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Sullivan |first1=national rural reporter Kath |title=Former Victorian senator Ricky Muir in comeback bid with Shooters, Fishers and Farmers |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-04-23/ricky-muir-shooters-fishers-farmers-bid-for-senate-spot-victoria/11039256 |accessdate=23 April 2019 |publisher=ABC News |date=23 April 2019 }}</ref> The party received 1.9% of the vote.<ref>{{cite web |title=Senate Results |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/elections/federal/2019/results/senate |website=ABC News: Australia Votes |access-date=26 February 2021 |date=14 June 2019}}</ref>


==Family life==
==Family life==
He is married to Kerrie-Anne Muir and they have five children.<ref name=theAustralian />
He is married to Kerrie-Anne Muir and they have five children.<ref name="Le Grand-2013" />


==References==
==References==

Latest revision as of 03:30, 2 August 2024

Ricky Muir
Muir in July 2014
Senator for Victoria
In office
1 July 2014 – 2 July 2016
Preceded byHelen Kroger
Succeeded byDerryn Hinch
Personal details
Born
Ricky Lee Muir

(1980-12-25) 25 December 1980 (age 43)
Maffra, Victoria, Australia
Political party
SpouseKerrie-Anne Muir
Children5
Residence(s)Heyfield, Victoria, Australia
Education
Occupation
Profession
  • Business owner
  • politician

Ricky Lee Muir (born 25 December 1980) is an Australian politician who served as a Senator for Victoria from 2014 to 2016.

Muir was elected to the Senate at the 2013 federal election, standing for the Australian Motoring Enthusiast Party (AMEP).[1] His election from a primary vote of just 0.51%, along with several similar occurrences, contributed to the abolition of group voting tickets in 2016. In October 2013, Muir announced that he would form a voting bloc in the Senate with the Palmer United Party's members. His term formally began on 1 July 2014. He failed to win re-election at the 2016 election, following a double dissolution which cut short his term in office. He joined the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party in 2017, standing unsuccessfully in the seat of Morwell at the 2018 Victorian state election. He was his party's lead Senate candidate in Victoria at the 2019 federal election.

Early life

[edit]

Muir was born in Maffra, Victoria. He grew up mainly in Stratford, completing most of his primary education at Boisdale Consolidated School with a short stint at Dargo, then later attending secondary school at Maffra Secondary College,[2] leaving school in 1996.[3]

He worked for a leather company making car seats. Around 2009, he moved to Denison, near Heyfield, and worked for a sawmill, moving up to manager. Shortly before the election, the sawmill ceased operations and he lost his job.[4]

Political career

[edit]

Entry to politics

[edit]

Muir said that as a young man, he was interested in customising cars, but as he gained a family, he moved on to four-wheel drives as a way to explore the countryside. He wanted to keep the country open for four-wheel drives to explore. About four months before the election, he discovered the AMEP on social networking sites. He was preselected for the election without having met the party leaders. He had no political experience. He calls himself an "average Australian" and wanted to make "balanced decision which reflects on hopefully the everyday Australian".[4][5]

2013 election

[edit]

Muir represented AMEP in Victoria at the 2013 federal election and won on a record-low primary vote of 0.51 percent or 17,122 first preferences (coming 13th out of 34 groups), getting to the 14.3 percent quota from 23 group voting ticket party preferences: Bank Reform Party, Australian Fishing and Lifestyle Party, HEMP Party, Shooters and Fishers, Australian Stable Population Party, Senator Online, Building Australia Party, Family First Party, Bullet Train For Australia, Rise Up Australia Party, No Carbon Tax Climate Sceptics, Citizens Electoral Council, Palmer United Party, Democratic Labour Party, Katter's Australian Party, Socialist Equality Party, Australian Sex Party, Australian Voice Party, Wikileaks Party, Drug Law Reform, Stop CSG, Animal Justice Party, and the Australian Independents Party.[6][7] The previous record for the lowest successful primary Senate vote for a party's lead candidate was held by the Nuclear Disarmament Party's Robert Wood who polled 1.5 percent in New South Wales in 1987, a double dissolution election. Independent Senator Nick Xenophon and larger parties including the incoming government are examining changes to the group voting ticket system.[8][9][10]

In October 2013 it was reported that the AMEP's Victorian State Council had been banned by the party's executive from contacting Muir since the election, and that Muir supported the executive's decision to suspend the State Council.[11][12] The Victorian branch of the party voted to disband itself and expel Muir in July 2014. Both the expulsion and the existence of the Victorian branch after October 2013 were not recognised by the federal party.[13]

On 10 October 2013 Muir announced he would enter into an alliance with the Palmer United Party.[14]

Senator

[edit]
Muir (second from right) with Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove, Lady Cosgrove, and other Senators in 2014

Muir's term in the senate commenced on 1 July 2014.[15] He delivered his maiden speech on 5 March 2015.[16][17]

In an interview by Mike Willesee broadcast on Channel Seven's Sunday Night program on 8 June 2014, Muir was shown to have considerable difficulty explaining the meaning of the terms "balance of power" and "aftermarket".[18] In response, Clive Palmer asserted that Willesee was a "dickhead" and had a "plum stuck up his arse". Palmer claimed that only a minute of an hour long interview was put to air.[19]

Muir's senior adviser was electoral consultant Glenn Druery, however he was sacked by Muir less than a month later and was escorted out of Parliament. Muir stated that Druery did not "get along with the staff".[20] Muir also hired former New South Wales state politician Peter Breen to advise him on legislation,[21][22] but also sacked him on 6 August 2014.[23] As of November 2014, five members of Muir's staff had resigned or been sacked.[24]

On 19 November 2014, Muir voted against changes to financial planning laws on which the Abbott government and Palmer United Party had reached agreement.[25]

SFF candidate

[edit]

Muir joined the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party (SFF) in June 2017.[26] He contested the electoral district of Morwell at the 2018 Victorian state election, coming fifth with 7.1% of the vote.[27]

Muir was the SFF lead candidate for the Senate in Victoria at the 2019 federal election.[28] The party received 1.9% of the vote.[29]

He contested the electoral district of Gippsland East at the 2022 Victorian state election, coming fourth with 5.83% of the vote.[30]

Family life

[edit]

He is married to Kerrie-Anne Muir and they have five children.[4]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Motoring Enthusiast Party member Ricky Muir wins Senate seat". ABC News. October 2013. Archived from the original on 15 November 2020. Retrieved 1 October 2013.
  2. ^ "Ricky Muir's maiden speech to parliament". Archived from the original on 17 June 2018. Retrieved 19 March 2016.
  3. ^ "Ricky Muir opens up about year on the dole – 9News". 9news.com.au. Archived from the original on 31 July 2018. Retrieved 14 April 2018.
  4. ^ a b c Le Grand, Chip (10 September 2013). "Senate's 'average' guy Ricky Muir parks the enthusiasm". The Australian. Archived from the original on 10 September 2013. Retrieved 2 October 2013.
  5. ^ "Ricky Muir not influenced by money in Senate run for Australian Motoring Enthusiast Party". ABC News. 12 September 2013. Archived from the original on 8 October 2013. Retrieved 2 October 2013.
  6. ^ "Victorian 2013 Senate results and preference flows: ABC". Archived from the original on 1 December 2023. Retrieved 2 October 2013.
  7. ^ "The Preference Deals behind the Strange Election of Ricky Muir and Wayne Dropulich: Antony Green ABC 13 September 2013". Archived from the original on 15 September 2013. Retrieved 2 October 2013.
  8. ^ "Coalition shy of Senate majority: Business Spectator 9 September 2013". Archived from the original on 3 March 2016. Retrieved 2 October 2013.
  9. ^ "Tony Abbott fires a warning shot at micro parties in the Senate: WA Today 9 September 2013". Archived from the original on 31 January 2016. Retrieved 2 October 2013.
  10. ^ Xenophon wants voting reform: NineMSN 9 September 2013 Archived 17 January 2014 at the Wayback Machine
  11. ^ "Victorian branch of Australian Motoring Enthusiast Party banned from contacting Senator-elect Ricky Muir". ABC News. 8 October 2013. Archived from the original on 8 October 2013. Retrieved 9 October 2013.
  12. ^ Caldwell, Alison (8 October 2013). "Australian Motoring Enthusiast Party closes Victorian branch over 'blatant disregard' for national executive". ABC News. Archived from the original on 8 October 2013. Retrieved 9 October 2013.
  13. ^ Willingham, Richard (31 July 2014). "Victorian branch of Ricky Muir's party tries to revoke his membership". The Age. Archived from the original on 31 July 2014. Retrieved 31 July 2014.
  14. ^ Emma Griffiths (10 October 2013). "Clive Palmer issues warning to Government as Motoring Enthusiast Ricky Muir joins Senate voting bloc". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Archived from the original on 6 November 2013. Retrieved 11 August 2014.
  15. ^ "Former Senator Ricky Muir". Senators and Members. Parliament of Australia. Archived from the original on 25 October 2014. Retrieved 20 March 2019.
  16. ^ Henderson, Anna (6 March 2015). "Ricky Muir uses maiden speech to lash Government over lack of consultation on key policies". ABC News. Archived from the original on 7 March 2015. Retrieved 6 March 2015.
  17. ^ Muir, Ricky. "First Speech". Parliament of Australia. Archived from the original on 22 November 2021. Retrieved 6 March 2015.
  18. ^ Louise Yaxley (9 June 2014). "Motoring Enthusiasts Party senator-elect Ricky Muir stumbles in TV interview". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Archived from the original on 13 August 2014. Retrieved 11 August 2014.
  19. ^ "Clive Palmer hits back at 'dickhead' Mike Willesee: SMH 9 June 2014". Archived from the original on 9 June 2014. Retrieved 9 June 2014.
  20. ^ "Senator Ricky Muir sacks chief of staff Glenn Druery: The Age 1 August 2014". Archived from the original on 2 August 2014. Retrieved 1 August 2014.
  21. ^ "Novice politician Ricky Muir undone by a veteran in the business or questionable tactics? SMH 9 June 2014". Archived from the original on 11 June 2014. Retrieved 17 June 2014.
  22. ^ Aston, Heath (2 July 2014). "Muir hires ex-pollie to help with legislation". The Sydney Morning Herald. Archived from the original on 6 July 2014. Retrieved 10 July 2014.
  23. ^ "Ricky Muir sacks adviser Peter Breen; third staffer of Motoring Enthusiasts Party senator to depart". ABC News. 5 August 2014. Archived from the original on 25 December 2014. Retrieved 8 February 2015.
  24. ^ Massola, James; Aston, Heath (4 November 2014). "Another Ricky Muir staffer hits the road, with five departing in three months". The Sydney Morning Herald. Archived from the original on 8 January 2015. Retrieved 9 February 2015.
  25. ^ Norman, Jane (19 November 2014). "Jacqui Lambie, Ricky Muir break ranks in 'coalition of common sense' against financial advice laws". ABC News. Archived from the original on 23 January 2015. Retrieved 9 February 2015.
  26. ^ Willingham, Richard (27 June 2017). "Ricky Muir joins Victorian Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party in Gippsland ambassadorial role". ABC News. Archived from the original on 17 May 2018. Retrieved 21 May 2018.
  27. ^ "Ricky Muir named Shooters, Fishers and Farmers candidate for Morwell". The Weekly Times. 18 February 2018. Retrieved 21 May 2018.
  28. ^ Sullivan, national rural reporter Kath (23 April 2019). "Former Victorian senator Ricky Muir in comeback bid with Shooters, Fishers and Farmers". ABC News. Archived from the original on 27 April 2019. Retrieved 23 April 2019.
  29. ^ "Senate Results". ABC News: Australia Votes. 14 June 2019. Archived from the original on 1 December 2023. Retrieved 26 February 2021.
  30. ^ "Gippsland East District results". www.vec.vic.gov.au. Archived from the original on 9 February 2023. Retrieved 9 February 2023.
[edit]