Iconic Aussie politician Graham Richardson dies aged 76
Former Labor senator, cabinet minister, and political commentator Graham “Richo” Richardson has died at the age of 76. His passing follows years of health struggles and comes just days after he fulfilled a personal promise to live until his son completed his HSC exams.
Career and Legacy
Richardson served as a cabinet minister in the Hawke and Keating governments and represented New South Wales in the Senate throughout his political career. After leaving politics, he became a well-known commentator and a regular voice on Sky News Australia.
Final Days and Family
According to reports, Richardson passed away early Saturday following ongoing health issues, including pneumonia and dialysis treatment. Broadcaster Ben Fordham recounted that Richardson’s final wish was to survive until his son completed his final exams.
“When he had his big health challenge, he said to his wife Amanda, ‘I’m going to live till I see Darcy finish exams and his HSC’,” Ben Fordham told 2GB. “Darcy did his last HSC exam on Thursday, which was his French exam. And Richo died this morning.”
Richardson is survived by his wife Amanda and their son D’Arcy. He also had a son and daughter from his first marriage.
“I’ve lost the love of my life. D’Arcy’s lost the greatest dad and Australia’s lost one of its best. He was a man ahead of his time,” said Amanda Richardson in a statement.
Tributes and Public Reaction
Figures across the political spectrum have expressed their condolences and respect for Richardson’s decades of service and dedication to public life. Many have described him as a sharp strategist and one of the most influential Labor figures of his generation.
Author’s summary: A revered Australian Labor figure, Graham Richardson, passed away at 76 after long health battles, just days after his son finished his HSC exams.