Former Victorian premier Ted Baillieu said he was retiring from politics “a proud Australian and a proud Victorian” in an emotional farewell speech in the State Parliament.

The galleries were packed and the chamber fell silent on the final sitting day before November’s election, as Mr Baillieu described how he was honoured to have served as Premier.

He thanked his wife Robyn and his children, the voters in his Hawthorn electorate and the Liberal Party.

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“Very few of my 45 predecessors as Premier have had the privilege of giving a departing address to the Parliament,” he said.

“Premiers usually depart a bit more abruptly than perhaps I have.

“I leave as I arrived, a proud Australian and a proud Victorian.

“I leave as I arrived, still learning and still willing to be amazed.

“I leave as I arrived convinced that politics must be a quest for responsibility, not just a game about the pursuit of authority, power, position or privilege.

“It’s been a singular honour to serve as the member for Hawthorn, the leader of the opposition, the minister for arts and as premier.

“I will be ever be appreciative for the trust and support I was privileged to enjoy.

“But above all, I leave as I arrived. Deeply grateful for the unconditional support of, and in love with, my wife Robyn and, of course, our beautiful children.

Victoria ‘in much better shape’ thanks to Liberals

Mr Baillieu entered parliament in 1999 and was elected premier in 2010.

He resigned from the role in 2013 and was replaced by Denis Napthine.

In August he announced he would not re-contest his seat of Hawthorn at November’s state election and would quit politics.

He thanked the staff and public servants he worked with during his time as a member of Parliament.

“I was very proud that against the odds, and with one of the largest swings in this state’s history, we won sufficient seats for a majority in both houses, and won government,” he said.

“I leave also knowing that this state is in much better shape than when arrived in government.”

He said Victoria had led the nation in education, arts and multiculturalism, as well as with the recent child sexual abuse inquiry.

“But there are still so many things we can do to improve this state.”

Mr Baillieu also paid tribute to the “icebergers”, a group of swimmers known for plunging into the icy waters at Brighton Beach all year round.

“The antidote to politics will always be a two-kilometre swim in the middle of the bay wearing nothing but Speedos in the middle of winter,” he said.

“It’s impossible to think about anything else.”