Lupco (Luch) Jonceski was, among other things, the personal attendant to Speaker of the House of Representatives Milton Dick. Photo: Supplied.
Tributes are pouring in from the highest levels of politics for long-serving Parliament House attendant Lupco Jonceski, who passed away suddenly on 31 December 2025.
Known affectionately as Luch by all who knew him, he was a highly-regarded attendant in the House of Representatives over four decades and even worked before that on the construction of the building.
He was also the personal attendant to Speaker of the House Milton Dick, who issued a fitting tribute to the man everyone describes as kind, generous and dedicated to his work.
“Luch was the longest serving employee in the Department of the House of Representatives and served both in Old Parliament House and the current Parliament House, dedicating over 40 years to the parliamentary service,” Mr Dick said.
“Luch was a wonderful and kind person. In so many ways he was known for his professionalism, commitment, and great humour.
“He was greatly valued and loved by all who worked with him. So many people crossed paths with him over the decades – prime ministers, leaders of the Opposition, speakers, ministers and dozens of Members of Parliament.
“Luch always made it his mission to welcome all new Members of Parliament and make them feel at ease, me included.
“His passing leaves us all in shock and sorrow.”
Anthony Albanese issued a statement on social media, honouring Mr Jonceski.
The Prime Minister said “countless members of parliament, public servants and staffers past and present will be deeply saddened” by his sudden passing.
“Luch was a true legend of Parliament House,” Mr Albanese said.
“In a place that can sometimes feel vast, impersonal and combative, he was always friendly, warm and helpful. He treated everyone with respect and was respected by all in turn.
“For four decades, Luch performed his vital role to the highest standard with the utmost professionalism.
“Yet he was every bit as quick with a kind word or a joke to lift your spirits and put you at ease.
“Luch was a great servant of Australian democracy and a wonderful human being.”
Opposition Leader Sussan Ley also took to X to express her condolences.
“On behalf of the Opposition, I am deeply shocked and saddened by the passing of Lupco “Luch” Jonceski, who was truly an institution in the House of Representatives Chamber,” she said.
“From the day I first walked into parliament 25 years ago, Luch was the same, warm, friendly presence he was the very last time we saw him.
“He was unfailingly cheerful to everyone, regardless of politics or position, and he knew the chamber, its rules and its members better than almost anyone.
“In a place that is often formal and tightly structured, Luch had a quiet way of reminding us of our better selves, offering a lighthearted remark as he went about his work with care and professionalism.
“He brought humanity to the heart of our parliament. I can honestly say the House will not be the same without him.”
Nationals Member for Gippsland, Darren Chester, related a personal experience as an example of Mr Jonceski’s humanity and humour.
“Aside from our daily banter, Luch was the first person by my side when I collapsed in Federal Parliament in 2020 after the stress of the Black Summer and he wanted to know how my tests had gone in hospital,” Mr Chester posted on Facebook.
“When I received the all clear from the doctors he joked that, ‘At least they found you had a heart, boss’.
“That was typical of Luch … always demonstrating empathy and kindness, and often laughing heartily at his own jokes.
“We will miss him. Parliament won’t be the same without Luch Jonceski. May he rest in peace.”
Liberal MP Zoe McKenzie described Mr Jonceski as her “chamber mum” over the way he was “always looking out” for her.
“2025 robbed us of so many great Australians. And in its last moments, it reached for one of the best,” Ms McKenzie said.
Liberal MP Angus Taylor said Parliament House had lost one of its “quiet constants”.
Former Labor leader Bill Shorten also issued a statement to describe how Mr Jonceski carried out his duties in an “understated, professional way, and with enormous pride”.
“It may come as a surprise to some, however, that Luch had leopard-like reflexes,” Mr Shorten said.
“I will never forget seeing him spring into action to stop a silly protestor who threatened to disrupt Question Time.
“They met their match in Lupco (Luch) Jonceski, who said, ‘Not on my watch.’”
