'It's been a privilege': Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery to retire

Long-standing Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery has announced she will not contest next year's state election.

Ms Hornery has held Labor's safest seat for the past 20 years.

She was the only Hunter Labor MP who survived the 2011 election wipeout in which the Liberal Party won an unprecedented number of seats across the region.

In a statement, Ms Hornery said she had made the decision to retire after months of careful consideration.

"Being the Member for Wallsend and representing this wonderful community has been my honour and privilege," she said.

"Over the past 20 years the Wallsend community has experienced both great and difficult times.

"I thank the many people and organisations who have supported me and offered their friendship over the years."

Premier Chris Minns described Ms Hornery as a "fierce local member" who had never forgotten who sent her to Parliament or why she was there.

"She's stood by her community through good times and difficult ones, and her community has stood by her," he said.

That kind of loyalty is earned by turning up, listening and fighting for people, year after year. Sonia understands something very important about this job. A problem doesn't have to make the news to matter enormously to the person asking for help."

Ms Hornery, a former Newcastle councillor, has had several high-profile clashes with City of Newcastle's administration in recent years.

Labor is yet to announce who its candidate for the seat will be. However, the position is expected to be hotly contested within local Labor ranks.

Ms Hornery said it had been a privilege to have been the local member for two decades.

"I want to thank my past and current staff who I've had the pleasure of employing over the years. I also want to thank the many people in our community who have assisted by my office. Listening to stories of good outcomes is a highlight of my job," she said.

"I will be the Member for Wallsend up until the election in March. Please do not hesitate to contact my office if you require assistance with any State matters."

Mr Minns said Ms Hornery should be very proud of the difference she had made.

"I wish Sonia all the very best for her retirement and I hope she gets some well-earned time for herself," he said.