The NSW Liberal Party today mourns the passing of the Hon John Fahey AC.
For almost two decades John had served the people of NSW in state and federal parliament, as an MP, a Minister and the NSW Premier.
John first joined the Liberal Party in 1976, and won a seat in state Parliament in 1984. He would go on to serve as the Minister for Industrial Relations, Employment, Further Education and Training, before being elevated to Premier in 1992. His Government was the first to appoint a Minister for the Status of Women, introduced the Senior’s Card and passed the Disability Services Act to guarantee the rights of all people with a disability in NSW.
After leaving state politics John won the federal seat of Macarthur in 1996, and would go on to serve in the Howard Government as the Minister for Finance.
NSW Liberal Party State Director, Chris Stone, said that John Fahey's service and dedication to the people of NSW and Australia, and almost two decades in state and federal parliaments, will never be forgotten.
“John continued serving the Party after his retirement from federal parliament in 2001, including chairing the 2015 Committee that helped to deliver an outstanding victory for the Baird Liberal Government.
“His outstanding contribution was recognised in 2014, when he was made a Life Member of our State Council, an honour he thoroughly deserved.”
While John is best known as a politician, the impact of his work as the President of the World Anti-Doping Agency and Chancellor of the Australian Catholic University will also be long remembered. As will his bravery, quick thinking and selflessness in protecting Prince Charles from an armed attacker on Australia Day in 1994.
The NSW Liberal Party President, the Hon Philip Ruddock AO, expressed deep sadness of all members on John Fahey’s passing.
“Having served with John in federal parliament, I knew him to be one of the most humble and honourable people who ever served our state and nation.
“This year we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Sydney Olympics, one of John’s many lasting legacies, that left us with the indelible image of John’s joy as he jumped from his seat at the official announcement.
“Our deepest condolences go out to John's wife Colleen, his children Matthew and Melanie, their grandchildren, family and friends.”