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.
Tribute by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid a heartfelt tribute to Richardson, describing him as a “much loved” figure within the Labor Party and beyond. Albanese recalled his frequent consultations with Richardson, valuing his advice deeply.
“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.”
Political Career and Legacy
Richardson served as a senior cabinet minister in the Hawke and Keating governments. He was also a dedicated contributor to Sky News Australia for 15 years. The Prime Minister emphasized Richardson’s intellect, political insight, and loyalty.
“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.”
Personal Memories
Albanese fondly remembered Richardson as a champion of the “long lunch” and spoke about their shared tradition of meeting at the Malaya restaurant.
“I'll miss our lunches at the Malaya, we used to try to catch up at least once a year.”
Graham Richardson was not only a prominent political figure but also a husband, father, and respected media contributor.
Author’s summary: Graham Richardson was a respected and loyal Labor figure whose sharp political insight and warm personality left a lasting impact on colleagues and the media.