Labor MP Julie Owens announces retirement

She told parliament she wanted a ballot of rank-and-file branch members to decide Labor's Parramatta candidate for the next election.

Politicians from across the chamber stood and applauded Ms Owens after she announced her decision.

Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese paid tribute to her legacy.

"There is no member of the caucus who has knocked on my door about the needs of their electorate more than Julie Owens," he said.