Iconic Aussie pollie dies aged 76

Iconic Aussie Politician Dies Aged 76

Former Labor senator, influential powerbroker, and political commentator Graham “Richo” Richardson has passed away at 76. His death follows long-standing health challenges, coming just days after fulfilling a promise to witness his son complete the HSC exams.

Career and Legacy

Richardson served as a cabinet minister during the Hawke and Keating administrations and represented New South Wales in the Senate throughout his political career. He played a pivotal role in the 1991 leadership shift that saw Bob Hawke replaced by Paul Keating, a defining moment in Australian Labor Party history.

After retiring from politics, Richardson became a prominent media voice, frequently appearing on Sky News Australia as a commentator.

Tributes and Final Days

Friends, colleagues, and public figures have shared heartfelt tributes celebrating his influence and loyalty to the Labor movement. Richardson’s passing came early Saturday morning after continued battles with illness.

“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. “Darcy did his last HSC exam on Thursday, which was his French exam. And Richo died this morning.”

Fordham noted that Richardson had endured repeated bouts of influenza and pneumonia and was receiving dialysis treatment in recent years.

Author’s Summary

Graham “Richo” Richardson, an influential Labor figure and commentator, died aged 76, fulfilling his promise to live until his son completed his final school exams.

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News.com.au News.com.au — 2025-11-08

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