Available for hire: former speaker of the House of Representatives. Excels at negotiating, making impromptu speeches and managing a disorderly crowd.

As the July 2 election approaches, Labor MP Anna Burke is one of more than 20 parliamentarians who are stepping down and re-entering civilian life – and potentially facing unemployment.

Some government MPs in 20 vulnerable seats may also have to adjust to retirement after election day.

Public sympathy is usually scant for outgoing politicians; many of the current crop will be paid annual life pensions of $118,000 or more, while still being free to pursue other well-paid jobs.