Pat Dodson has announced his intention to resign from the Senate

The stalwart of First Nations activism said he would step down from his position next year in light of recent health problems.

The Yawuru man has been undergoing treatment for cancer, and says it has taken a toll. Source: Supplied

Western Australian senator Pat Dodson will resign from the federal parliament next year, saying his recent treatment for cancer had taken a toll on his health and stamina.

In a statement, the Yawuru man said he had informed the Labor Party caucus of his decision on Tuesday morning, after earlier informing the prime minister and also the premier of Western Australia.

The 75-year-old said he will retire on January 26 2024, and thanked his colleagues.

"It has been an honour to serve as Senator for Western Australia," he said.

"I thank prime minister Albanese for his support and for his appointment of me as Special Envoy for Reconciliation and Implementation of the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

"I also place on the record my high regard for his decision to proceed with the recent referendum."

Dodson, who has been a stalwart of Indigenous activism going back decades, was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma earlier this year, and took leave from parliament to undergo treatment.

He said the treatment had impacted his ability to fulfil his roles as senator and Special Envoy.

"Regrettably, my recent treatment for cancer means that my health, although slowly improving, has left me physically unable to continue as a Senator."

He also thanked well-wishers who had passed on messages of support during his absence.

Tributes flow for a giant of First Nations rights

Dodson has been a figure of First Nations rights and recognition for decades. Credit: AAPIMAGE/Mick Tsikas

Senator Dodson's announcement was met with glowing tributes, a recognition of his decades fighting for Indigenous rights and recognition.

Linda Burney, the minister for Indigenous Affairs, described the "immense privilege" of working with her Labor colleague.

"Patrick has dedicated his life to improving the lives of Indigenous Australians, and deserves our deepest respect and gratitude.

"I first met Patrick in 1995, when we worked together on the Recognition, Rights and Reform report for the Keating government.

"Over many years, his courage and wisdom has been a powerful source of support."

Among the many roles Dodson has held during his long life in public service are that of Chairman of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation, commissioner for the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody, and director of the Central and Kimberly Land Councils.