Frank yet charismatic: Former Labor senator Graham Richardson dead at 76
Veteran Labor powerbroker and long-time Sky News contributor Graham Richardson has passed away at the age of 76. His death was confirmed on Saturday, marking the end of a significant chapter in Australian political life.
Richardson served as a senior cabinet minister during the Hawke and Keating governments, earning respect as a dedicated public figure, husband, and father. For 15 years, he was a regular contributor to Sky News Australia, where his political insight and candor reached wide audiences.
Tributes from political leaders
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to Richardson, recalling his influence and generosity within the Labor Party and beyond.
“He’s someone who I often got advice from and he was always worth listening to,” Anthony Albanese said.
“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. Everyone who worked with him respected his intellect, his ability to cut through, and his deep understanding of politics.”
“Graham was someone who was incredibly loyal. He was loyal to me as Labor leader,” the Prime Minister added.
Remembering a political character
Albanese fondly described Richardson as “a champion of the long lunch.”
“I'll miss our lunches at the Malaya; we tried to catch up at least once a year,” he said.
Legacy
Richardson's impact on Australian politics and media remains substantial. Known for his sharp commentary and practical political thinking, he leaves behind a lasting legacy of loyalty and leadership.
Author’s summary: Graham Richardson, a key Labor figure and media voice, is remembered for his sharp political mind, humor, and loyalty across decades of Australian political life.