Mark Latham announces shock split from his magistrate wife of 22 years – with the cryptic comment that it ended in 'rather unique circumstances'

  • One Nation New South Wales MP announced sprit from his wife, Janine 
  • They had been married for 22 years and he wishes her well for the future
  • Mr Latham said his priority now is love and dedication to their children 

By Padraig Collins For Daily Mail Australia

Published: | Updated:

Prominent politician Mark Latham has announced he has separated from his wife Janine Lacy 'in rather unique circumstances' after 22 years of marriage. 

In a statement on social media, the One Nation leader in NSW said: 'In 2000 I married Janine and I thank her for the happy and loving years we shared together.

'But now it has ended (in rather unique circumstances). My priority now is my love for and dedication to the best interests of my children,' he said.

Mr Latham, 61, said he wanted to move on with his life and to continue in public service, 'particularly the forthcoming NSW election'.

He added that he wished Janine, with whom he has two sons and a daughter, well. 

Mark Latham (centre) is pictured with his wife Janine Lacy (left) and his mother Lorraine Latham in Brisbane, September 29, 2004. Mr Latham was leader of the Labor Party at the time

Mark Latham (centre) is pictured with his wife Janine Lacy (left) and his mother Lorraine Latham in Brisbane, September 29, 2004. Mr Latham was leader of the Labor Party at the time

Mr Latham later thanked his supporters 'for the kind messages sent through in response to my post. 

'It's really nice that people care this way. Please don't worry, I'm fine and heading into Macquarie Street for the parliamentary week ahead.

'You have a good week too,' he said. 

One commenter said: 'Circumstances happen for a reason which may not be clear at this moment in your life. 

'Stay strong, focused and amicable through this tough time.'

Fellow MP, Victorian Bernie Finn, kept things simple, saying 'All the best, Mark. Been there, done that. It's not easy.'

Another supporter said they were 'sending you and your wife best wishes as you begin a new stage in your lives. 

One Nation MP Mark Latham issued a personal statement (pictured) on social media, announcing he had split from his wife Janine

One Nation MP Mark Latham issued a personal statement (pictured) on social media, announcing he had split from his wife Janine

'Children are most important when a relationship breaks down, I know you and your wife will always have their best interest at heart. 

'May your years ahead be happy and same for your wife. Thank you for letting your followers know about this personal matter.'

Ms Lacy was Mr Latham's second wife. He married his first wife, Gabrielle Gwyther, in 1991. They separated in 1997 and divorced in 1999. 

Mark Latham (right) gives his wife Janine Lacey a kiss in Perth on September 18, 2004

Mark Latham (right) gives his wife Janine Lacey a kiss in Perth on September 18, 2004

He married Ms Lacy the following year. When they met, Mr Latham was a Labor MP and Ms Lacy was a Liberal staffer.

When he became Labor leader in December 2003, he said: 'I want to thank Janine, my wife, for her love and support. 

'I've been happy in the home, happy in our relationship; it gives me the strength to do this job properly.' 

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Mr Latham for comment.  

New South Wales

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