Former Labor senator Graham Richardson dead at 76

Former Labor Senator Graham Richardson Dead at 76

Veteran Labor figure and Sky News contributor Graham Richardson has died aged 76. He was a senior cabinet minister in the Hawke and Keating governments, a dedicated husband and father, and contributed to Sky News Australia for 15 years.

Tributes from Sky News

Sky News Australia CEO Paul Whittaker highlighted Mr Richardson's unwavering dedication despite recent health challenges.

"It is a true measure of Graham's dogged determination, will to live and strength of purpose that he insisted on appearing for his regular segment with Sky News' Chief News Anchor Kieran Gilbert on Monday morning from his hospital room despite his failing health."

Whittaker also described "Richo" as one of the sharpest political minds in Australian politics, praising his insightful and charismatic commentary over the years.

"During his almost 15 years delivering his frank yet charismatic commentary on political affairs on Sky News, Richo added an insight, expertise, and depth that enhanced political discourse in Australia."

Richardson was known for his uncompromising style and exceptional ability to predict election results early, making him a central figure in Sky News’ election night coverage.

"His uncompromising style and enviable ability to call the election result, often before anyone else, cemented him as a key fixture of Sky News’ election night coverage, while his contributions across the network helped shape Sky News into the leading destination for live political news coverage it is today."

Summary

Graham Richardson’s persistent dedication and sharp political insight significantly shaped Australian political commentary and election coverage for nearly two decades.

Sky News Australia — 2025-11-08