He will retire from politics at the upcoming election, but says his reasons are personal and have nothing to do with the Labor leadership change, but he says the spill provided a catalyst for the decision.
In a statement today, Mr Combet says he had decided not to recontest the NSW seat of Charlton after a long period of consideration, and discussions with family, friends, colleagues and local Labor supporters.
"It is a matter that I had discussed over a period of months with the former prime minister Julia Gillard," he said.
The former ACTU secretary entered parliament in 2007, and as Climate Change Minister had been responsible for the government's controversial carbon tax.
Mr Combet said he had on Saturday advised the prime minister of his decision to quit politics, which came after 30 years of working within the labour movement.
"It is simply time for me to step back from a frontline role and pursue a change in my working and personal life," Mr Combet said.
"I wish to be more available to my family and friends, look after my health, and focus more on my personal life."
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