Frank yet charismatic: Former Labor senator Graham Richardson dead at 76
Veteran Labor powerbroker and Sky News contributor Graham Richardson passed away at the age of 76 on Saturday. He was a senior cabinet minister during the Hawke and Keating governments, a devoted husband and father, and a contributor to Sky News Australia for 15 years.
Tribute from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid a heartfelt tribute to Mr. Richardson, describing him as a "much loved" figure within the Labor Party. Albanese shared his personal respect for Richardson's intellect and political insight.
“He’s someone who I often got advice from and he was always worth listening to. He was someone who was very much loved within the Labor party, but more broadly as well – you spoke about the family there at Sky News.”
“He’s someone who everyone worked with him and had contact with him had to respect his intellect his capacity to cut through, and his insight into the way that politics worked.”
“Graham was someone who was incredibly loyal. He was loyal to me as Labor leader.”
The Prime Minister fondly remembered their meetings, recalling, “Graham was a champion of the long lunch. I'll miss our lunches at the Malaya, we used to try to catch up at least once a year.”
Legacy
- Senior cabinet minister in Hawke and Keating governments
- Sky News contributor for 15 years
- Respected for his insight and loyalty within the Labor Party
Graham Richardson’s impact on Australian politics and media remains deeply felt by colleagues and friends.
Author’s summary: Graham Richardson’s passing marks the loss of a respected Labor figure known for his sharp political insight and personal loyalty, remembered warmly by Prime Minister Albanese.