'Frank yet charismatic': Former Labor senator Graham Richardson dead at 76

Frank yet Charismatic: Former Labor Senator Graham Richardson Dead at 76

Veteran Labor strategist and Sky News contributor Graham Richardson passed away on Saturday at the age of 76. A key figure in Labor politics for decades, he served as a senior cabinet minister under the Hawke and Keating governments and later became a respected commentator and adviser.

Tributes from the Prime Minister

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese shared warm words in memory of Richardson, describing him as a much-loved member of the Labor Party and a colleague whose presence extended well beyond politics.

“He’s someone who I often got advice from and he was always worth listening to,” Albanese said.

“He was very much loved within the Labor Party, but more broadly as well... everyone who worked with him respected his intellect, his ability to cut through, and his insight into how politics worked.”

Remembering Loyalty and Friendship

Albanese emphasized Richardson’s deep loyalty, both to the Labor movement and to his friends and colleagues. He fondly recalled their regular meetings, noting the senator’s love of connection and conversation.

“Graham was someone who was incredibly loyal. He was loyal to me as Labor leader,” Albanese added. “I’ll miss our lunches at the Malaya; we tried to catch up at least once a year.”

Legacy

Richardson leaves behind a legacy as a political tactician, communicator, husband, and father. Over 15 years at Sky News, he brought sharp analysis and insider perspective to Australian viewers.

Author’s summary: Graham Richardson, a Labor stalwart and political strategist, is remembered as a loyal friend and sharp political mind whose wit and wisdom shaped generations in Australian politics.

Sky News Australia — 2025-11-08