Iconic Aussie Politician Dies Aged 76
Former Australian Labor senator, cabinet minister, and political commentator Graham “Richo” Richardson has passed away at the age of 76. He served as a senior minister in the Hawke and Keating governments and represented New South Wales during his career in the Senate.
After leaving politics, Richardson became a recognizable media figure and regular contributor to Sky News Australia. His death occurred early Saturday morning following years of persistent health issues.
A Promise to His Family
Despite his declining health, Richardson was determined to live until his son completed his Higher School Certificate (HSC) exams. He kept that promise.
“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’,” said 2GB host Ben Fordham.
Fordham added that Richardson’s son D’Arcy completed his final exam, French, on Thursday, and Richardson passed away the following morning.
Tributes and Legacy
Tributes have poured in from colleagues, journalists, and friends remembering Richardson’s influence on Australian politics and media.
“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 his wife Amanda.
Richardson is survived by his wife Amanda, his son D’Arcy, and two children from a previous marriage.
Cause and Health Struggles
Ben Fordham noted that Richardson had suffered from recurring influenza, pneumonia, and required regular dialysis in recent years, yet continued to appear publicly when able.
Author’s summary: Graham Richardson, a leading Labor figure and TV commentator, has died aged 76 after long health battles, fulfilling his vow to live until his son completed final exams.