Famous Australian Leaders

Robert James Lee Hawke AC GCL was an Australian politician and trade unionist who served as the 23rd prime minister of Australia from 1983 to 1991. He held leadership positions in the Australian Labor Party and the Australian Council of Trade Unions before entering parliamentary politics. As prime minister, he led the Labor Party to electoral success four times and implemented significant reforms, including economic changes, healthcare reforms, financial sector deregulation, and international agreements. Hawke faced a leadership challenge in 1991 and retired after being succeeded by Paul Keating.

Scott Morrison is an Australian former politician who served as the 30th prime minister of Australia from 2018 to 2022. He was the leader of the Liberal Party of Australia and represented the New South Wales division of Cook in parliament. Morrison held various ministerial positions, including Minister for Immigration and Border Protection, Minister for Social Services, and Treasurer. He faced criticism for his handling of the 2019 bushfire season, the 2021 Parliament sexual misconduct allegations, and his government's response to the 2022 floods and climate change.

John Howard is an Australian former politician who served as the 25th prime minister of Australia from 1996 to 2007. He led the Liberal Party of Australia and represented the New South Wales division of Bennelong in parliament. Howard held various key positions, including Treasurer of Australia, and led the Liberal Party to multiple election victories. His government oversaw economic growth, implemented controversial policies on gun control and immigration, and was involved in international conflicts. Despite criticisms, Howard is considered a significant and influential figure in Australian politics.

Gladys Berejiklian is an Australian businesswoman and former politician who served as the 45th premier of New South Wales and the leader of the New South Wales division of the Liberal Party. She held various roles in government, including Treasurer, Minister for Industrial Relations, and Minister for Transport. Berejiklian became deputy leader of the New South Wales Liberal Party and assumed the role of premier in 2017. She led the state's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and resigned amid an ICAC investigation in 2021.

Sir Robert Menzies was an Australian politician and lawyer who served as the 12th Prime Minister of Australia from 1939 to 1941 and 1949 to 1966. He played a significant role in establishing and defining the Liberal Party of Australia. Menzies' leadership saw Australia's entry into World War II, development of Canberra, expansion of post-war immigration, emphasis on higher education, and contributions to various conflicts. He won seven consecutive elections and is remembered for his government's national security policies and economic growth.

Harold Holt was an Australian politician and lawyer who served as the 17th prime minister of Australia. He began his career as a lawyer and lobbyist before entering politics, becoming a member of parliament at a young age. Holt held various ministerial positions, including Minister for Immigration and Treasurer, where he played key roles in expanding immigration and introducing the decimal Australian dollar. As prime minister, he focused on dismantling the White Australia policy, engaging with Asia, and expanding Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War before his mysterious disappearance in 1967.

Penelope Ying-Yen Wong is an Australian politician and member of the Australian Labor Party. She has been a senator for South Australia since 2002. Wong has held various ministerial positions, including Minister for Climate Change and Minister for Finance and Deregulation during the governments of Prime Ministers Kevin Rudd and Julia Gillard. She became the Leader of the Government in the Senate in the Albanese government in 2022. Wong is known for her advocacy on climate change and same-sex marriage, and is respected as a trusted politician in Australia.

Sir Edmund "Toby" Barton was an Australian statesman, barrister, and jurist who served as the first prime minister of Australia from 1901 to 1903. He was a key figure in the Federation movement, playing a crucial role in drafting the Constitution of Australia. Barton was known for his leadership in advocating for the federation of Australian colonies and was instrumental in the establishment of national institutions such as the Australian Defence Force and the Commonwealth Public Service. After his term as prime minister, Barton became a founding member of the High Court of Australia, where he contributed to shaping the judicial interpretation of the constitution.

Paul Keating was a prominent Australian politician who served as the 24th prime minister of Australia from 1991 to 1996. Prior to his role as prime minister, he was the treasurer under Prime Minister Bob Hawke and held senior positions within the Labor Party. Keating played a significant role in modernizing the Australian economy through various reforms, such as the Prices and Incomes Accord and the float of the Australian dollar. He was known for his oratory skills, charisma, and willingness to challenge social norms.

John Curtin was a prominent Australian politician who served as the 14th prime minister of Australia from 1941 until his death in 1945. He was known for his leadership during World War II and is considered one of Australia's greatest prime ministers. Curtin began his political career in the labor movement in Melbourne, rising through the ranks of various unions before entering federal politics in 1928. He led the Australian Labor Party through challenging times, including a hung parliament and wartime decisions against Japan.

Tony Abbott is an Australian former politician who served as the 28th prime minister of Australia from 2013 to 2015. He was a member of the Liberal Party of Australia and represented the New South Wales division of Warringah in parliament. Abbott held various ministerial positions, including Minister for Employment Services, Minister for Health and Ageing, and Minister for Employment, Workplace Relations, and Small Business. His government implemented Operation Sovereign Borders and focused on economic reforms, international relations, and national security initiatives. Abbott's leadership ended in 2015 after a leadership spill.

Peter Garrett is a prominent Australian musician, environmentalist, activist, and former politician. He gained fame as the lead singer of Midnight Oil, known for his bald head, unique dance style, and captivating stage presence. Garrett served as President of the Australian Conservation Foundation before entering politics as a member of the Labor Party. He held various ministerial positions, including Minister for the Environment, Heritage, and the Arts, and Minister for School Education, Early Childhood, and Youth. Recognized for his advocacy and contributions, Garrett has received prestigious awards for his environmental and conservation efforts.

Sir Henry Parkes was a colonial Australian politician and the longest non-consecutive Premier of the Colony of New South Wales. He played a crucial role in advocating for the federation of the six colonies of Australia and was known as the "Father of Federation." Parkes was an early critic of British convict transportation and a strong supporter of expanding the Australian continental rail network. His Tenterfield Oration in 1889 led to significant federal conferences and Constitutional Conventions, ultimately paving the way for the federation of Australia.

Malcolm Turnbull is a former Australian politician and businessman. He served as the 29th prime minister of Australia from 2015 to 2018, representing the Liberal Party. Turnbull has had a diverse professional background, working as a journalist, lawyer, merchant banker, and venture capitalist. He was a key figure in the Australian Republican Movement and held various ministerial positions in government, focusing on environmental issues and innovation. After leaving politics, Turnbull has continued to be active in the cybersecurity sector and has been vocal about political issues in Australia.

General Sir John Monash was an Australian civil engineer and military commander known for his leadership during World War I. He commanded various infantry brigades and divisions, including the 4th Brigade in Egypt and the 3rd Division in northwestern France. In May 1918, he became the commander of the Australian Corps, the largest corps on the Western Front at that time. Monash was recognized for his creative originality in military strategies and is considered one of the most distinguished generals of the First World War.

Edith Cowan was a pioneering Australian social reformer and politician known for her advocacy for women's and children's rights. She was the first Australian woman to serve as a member of parliament, elected in 1921. Cowan played a key role in the women's suffrage movement, education reform, and children's welfare initiatives. She co-founded organizations like the Karrakatta Club, the Children's Protection Society, and the Women's Service Guild. Cowan's influential work led to the establishment of the Children's Court and the King Edward Memorial Hospital for Women.

Tanya Joan Plibersek is an Australian politician who has been serving as the Member of Parliament for Sydney since 1998. A member of the Labor Party, she has held various ministerial positions in the Rudd, Gillard, and Albanese governments, including Minister for Housing, Minister for Health, and currently the Minister for the Environment and Water. Plibersek has also served as Deputy Leader of the Labor Party and Deputy Leader of the Opposition from 2013 to 2019.

Alfred Deakin was an Australian politician, barrister, and statesman who served as the second prime minister of Australia in multiple terms. He played a crucial role in the federation of the Australian colonies and was a key figure in early Australian politics. Deakin held various ministerial positions in Victoria before becoming the Attorney-General of Australia after Federation. He formed the Liberal Protectionist Party and later led a successful alliance with the Free Traders. Deakin's policies shaped Australia's socio-economic framework, making him one of the country's most influential prime ministers.

Leonard George Siffleet was an Australian commando who served in World War II. He joined the Second Australian Imperial Force in 1941 and quickly rose to the rank of sergeant. He was assigned to the M Special Unit of the Services Reconnaissance Department and was on a mission in Papua New Guinea when he was captured by partisan tribesmen and handed over to the Japanese. Siffleet, along with two Ambonese companions, endured interrogation, torture, and ultimately, execution by beheading.

General Sir Peter John Cosgrove is a distinguished Australian retired senior Army officer. He served in the Vietnam War and received the Military Cross in 1971. Throughout his career, he held various command positions within the Australian Army, including leading the International Force for East Timor. Cosgrove served as Chief of Army and later as Chief of the Defence Force before retiring. He continued his service by leading efforts to rebuild communities after natural disasters. Cosgrove was appointed Governor-General of Australia in 2014 until his retirement in 2019.

Cory Bernardi is an Australian conservative political commentator and former politician. He served as a Senator for South Australia from 2006 to 2020 and was the leader of the Australian Conservatives, a minor political party he founded in 2017 and disbanded in 2019. Prior to founding his own party, Bernardi was a member of the Liberal Party of Australia and represented the party in the Senate from 2006 to 2017. He is also known as the author of the book "The Conservative Revolution."

Malcolm Fraser was the 22nd prime minister of Australia, serving from 1975 to 1983. He started his political career as a Member of Parliament for the division of Wannon and held various ministerial positions before becoming leader of the Liberal Party. Fraser gained national attention for his role in the dismissal of Gough Whitlam, leading to his own appointment as prime minister. During his tenure, he focused on foreign affairs, supported multiculturalism, admitted non-white immigrants, and established the Special Broadcasting Service. After his retirement, Fraser held advisory positions with international organizations.

Jacqui Lambie is an Australian politician who founded the Jacqui Lambie Network (JLN) and serves as a Senator for Tasmania. She previously served as a Senator from 2014 to 2017. Lambie, an Aboriginal Tasmanian, served as a corporal in the Australian Army before entering politics. She joined the Palmer United Party in 2013, then resigned to sit as an independent in the Senate. In 2015, she formed the JLN political party and was re-elected as a Senator in 2019.

Zali Steggall is an Australian politician, lawyer, and former Winter Olympic athlete. She gained international recognition as an alpine skier, winning a bronze medal in slalom at the 1998 Winter Olympics and a World Championship gold medal in 1999. Following her athletic career, Steggall pursued a law degree and worked as a solicitor and barrister. She also contributed to various NGOs, including serving as a director of the Sport Australia Hall of Fame. In 2019, Steggall entered politics as an independent candidate and won the seat of Warringah.

Greg Hunt is an Australian former politician who had an extensive career in government. He served as the Minister for Health, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science, and Minister for Sport. Hunt represented the Division of Flinders in Victoria as a Liberal Party member of the House of Representatives. Notably, he oversaw the Australian government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic from March 2020 until his retirement in May 2022, showcasing his leadership during a critical time.

Alan Joyce is an Irish-Australian businessman known for his role as the chief executive officer (CEO) of Qantas Airways Limited. He served as the CEO of Qantas from 2008 until his retirement in 2023. During his tenure, Joyce implemented significant changes and strategies that contributed to the growth and success of the airline. He oversaw various initiatives, such as the expansion of international routes, fleet upgrades, and cost-saving measures. Joyce's leadership and vision played a crucial role in shaping Qantas' position in the aviation industry.

Donald Allan Dunstan was a prominent Australian politician known for his progressive policies during his time as the premier of South Australia. He served as the premier twice, from 1967 to 1968 and from 1970 to 1979, and was also the attorney-general and treasurer of the state. Dunstan was a key figure in advocating for various reforms, such as Aboriginal rights, decriminalization of homosexuality, consumer protection laws, electoral reforms, and the abolition of the death penalty. His administration also focused on cultural initiatives, such as supporting the arts and heritage preservation.

Julie Bishop is an Australian former politician who served as Minister for Foreign Affairs and deputy leader of the Liberal Party. She was the Member of Parliament for Curtin, chancellor of the Australian National University, and United Nations special envoy for Myanmar. Bishop studied law at the University of Adelaide and worked as a commercial lawyer before entering politics. Throughout her career, she held various ministerial positions, including Minister for Ageing, Minister for Education and Science, and Minister for Women. Bishop made history as Australia's first female foreign minister.

Dame Quentin Bryce is an Australian academic and lawyer who made history as the first woman to hold the position of Governor-General of Australia from 2008 to 2014. Throughout her career, she has held various significant roles, including being the Director of the Queensland Women's Information Service, the Queensland Director of the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, and the Federal Sex Discrimination Commissioner. Bryce has received several prestigious honors for her contributions, such as being appointed as an Officer and Companion of the Order of Australia.

Marie Bashir had a distinguished professional career primarily in the field of medicine. After graduating from the University of Sydney, she held various medical positions, specializing in psychiatry. She served as the Clinical Director of Mental Health Services for the Central Sydney Area Health Service before being appointed as the Governor of New South Wales in 2001, a position she held for over a decade. Additionally, she also served as the Chancellor of the University of Sydney during her career. Bashir retired in 2014 after a long and successful tenure as Governor.

Jeff Kennett is a prominent Australian figure with a diverse professional background. He has served as the Premier of Victoria, Leader of the Victorian Liberal Party, and Member for Burwood. Kennett is also known for his roles as the president of the Hawthorn Football Club and the founding Chairman of beyondblue, a national organization focused on mental health issues. Currently working as a media commentator, he continues to be actively involved in public service and advocacy efforts.

Campbell Newman is an Australian former politician who served as the 38th Premier of Queensland and the 15th Lord Mayor of Brisbane. He was a member of the Liberal Party before joining the Liberal National Party of Queensland. Newman led the LNP to a historic victory in the 2012 state election but faced defeat in the 2015 election, resulting in his resignation. He later joined the Liberal Democrats and announced his candidacy for the 2022 Australian federal election, remaining the only premier of Queensland from the LNP.

Ronald William Clarke was a renowned Australian athlete, writer, and former Mayor of the Gold Coast. He gained fame in the 1960s as a middle- and long-distance runner, setting an impressive seventeen world records during his career. Clarke's achievements in track and field made him a prominent figure in the sporting world. Beyond his athletic pursuits, he also contributed to the community by serving as the Mayor of the Gold Coast for eight years, showcasing his dedication to both sports and public service.

Joshua Anthony Frydenberg is an Australian former politician who served as the treasurer of Australia and deputy leader of the Liberal Party. He began his career as an adviser to Prime Minister John Howard and Foreign Minister Alexander Downer before being elected to the Australian House of Representatives. Frydenberg held various ministerial roles in the Abbott and Turnbull governments, including Minister for Resources and Minister for the Environment and Energy. He was elected as deputy leader of the Liberal Party in 2018 and appointed Treasurer by Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Frydenberg lost his seat in the 2022 federal election and later became chairman at the Australian arm of investment bank Goldman Sachs.

Sarah Hanson-Young is an Australian politician serving as a Senator for South Australia since July 2008 under the Australian Greens party. Notably, she holds the distinction of being the youngest woman to have been elected to federal parliament, achieving this milestone at the age of 25. Her career highlights include being the youngest person elected to the Senate at the time of her election, a record that stood until 2017 when Jordon Steele-John was elected.

Richard Di Natale is a former Australian politician who served as a senator for Victoria. He was the leader of the Australian Greens from 2015 to 2020, having been elected to the Senate in 2010. Prior to his political career, Di Natale worked as a general practitioner. He assumed the federal parliamentary leadership of the Australian Greens in 2015 after the resignation of Christine Milne. Di Natale led the Greens during the 2016 and 2019 federal elections, making significant contributions to Australian politics during his tenure.

Robert John Carr is an Australian retired politician and journalist. He served as the 39th Premier of New South Wales from 1995 to 2005 and as Minister for Foreign Affairs from 2012 to 2013. Carr entered politics after working as a journalist, becoming a cabinet minister in 1984. He led the Labor Party to victory in the 1991 election and became Premier in 1995. Carr focused on conservation and public-private partnerships for infrastructure projects. He later served as Foreign Minister before retiring in 2013.

Sussan Ley is an Australian politician serving as the Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party and Deputy Leader of the Opposition since May 2022. She has been a Member of Parliament for Farrer since 2001. Ley previously held various ministerial positions in the Abbott, Turnbull, and Morrison governments, including Minister for Health, Sport, Aged Care, and the Environment. She has a background as a commercial pilot, farmer, and public servant. In the current parliament, Ley serves as the Shadow Minister for Women, Industry, Skills and Training, as well as Small and Family Business.

Herbert Vere "Doc" Evatt was an Australian politician and judge who served as a justice of the High Court of Australia, Attorney-General, Minister for External Affairs, leader of the Australian Labor Party, and Leader of the Opposition. He was known for his role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights while serving as President of the United Nations General Assembly. Evatt faced challenges within the ALP over communism during the Cold War era and ultimately retired from politics to become Chief Justice of New South Wales.

David Gonski is an influential Australian public figure and businessman known for his extensive network and connections in the business world. Described as "one of the country's best-connected businessmen" by The Sydney Morning Herald, he has been recognized for his networking abilities and influence within the Sydney business community. Despite his low-key demeanor and preference for staying out of the spotlight, Gonski's impact and contributions to various industries have solidified his reputation as a prominent figure in the Australian business landscape.

Peter Lalor was an Irish-Australian rebel and politician known for his pivotal role in the Eureka Rebellion, a significant event in Australian history that symbolized the fight for democratic rights. Lalor's leadership during the rebellion catapulted him to fame, and he continued to be involved in politics after the event. He served in various political roles, using his influence to advocate for democratic principles and equality. Lalor's professional life was marked by a commitment to democratic ideals and a dedication to public service.

Timothy Andrew Fischer AC FTSE was an Australian politician and diplomat known for his leadership in the National Party. He served as the deputy prime minister in the Howard government and represented the Division of Farrer in the House of Representatives. Fischer's career included military service in the Vietnam War, a term in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly, and roles as Minister for Trade and Chairman of Tourism Australia. He later served as Australia's Ambassador to the Holy See, showcasing his dedication to public service.

Arthur Calwell was an influential Australian politician who served as the leader of the Labor Party from 1960 to 1967. He held various positions within the Labor Party, including state president and member of the federal executive, before being elected to the House of Representatives in 1940. Calwell played key roles in government during World War II, overseeing censorship and propaganda as Minister for Information and spearheading the post-war immigration scheme as Minister for Immigration. He led the Labor Party through three federal elections but faced defeat each time, notably opposing Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War.

Natasha Stott Despoja is an Australian diplomat and former politician known for her significant contributions to gender equality and advocacy for women and children's rights. She began her career in student politics before serving as a senator in the Australian Parliament, where she became the youngest woman to hold the position. Stott Despoja later became a prominent figure in the Australian Democrats, serving as deputy leader and federal leader. She has continued her work in various roles with government, non-profit organizations, and international bodies, focusing on issues such as violence prevention, health, and human rights.

Joseph Benedict Chifley was an Australian politician and train driver who served as the 16th Prime Minister of Australia from 1945 to 1949. He was a member of the Australian Labor Party and held various roles in government, including Treasurer and Minister for Postwar Reconstruction. Chifley was known for his leadership during the post-war period, overseeing significant social reforms, nation-building projects, and the establishment of key institutions. Despite facing criticism for some policies, he is remembered as a key figure in Australia's political history.

Alexander Downer is an Australian former politician and diplomat. He served as the leader of the Liberal Party from 1994 to 1995 and as Minister for Foreign Affairs from 1996 to 2007. Downer began his career working for the Bank of New South Wales before transitioning to the diplomatic service. He later became executive director of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and served as an advisor to Liberal leaders. Downer was elected to parliament in 1984 and held various positions before becoming Minister for Foreign Affairs in 1996.

Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester, had a varied professional life. He served as Governor-General of Australia from 1945 to 1947, a role unique among British royals. He was educated at school and Eton College before being commissioned in the 10th Royal Hussars. Despite interruptions due to royal duties, he served in France during World War II and held diplomatic roles. He was also involved in overseas tours, representing the British monarchy. In later years, he faced health challenges that limited his activities.

Kevin James Andrews is an Australian former politician and member of the Liberal Party of Australia. He served in the House of Representatives for the seat of Menzies from 1991 until the 2022 Australian federal election. Andrews held various ministerial positions in the Howard and Abbott governments, including Minister for Ageing, Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Minister for Social Services, and Minister for Defence. He also briefly contested for the Liberal deputy leadership in 2015. Andrews held the title of "Father of the House" and later "Father of the Parliament" for his long tenure in the Australian Parliament.

William Morris Hughes was a prominent Australian politician who served as the seventh prime minister of Australia from 1915 to 1923. He had a long and varied political career, representing six political parties and leading five of them. Hughes was known for his significant influence on national politics, particularly during World War I. He made notable contributions such as establishing the forerunners of the Australian Federal Police and the CSIRO, as well as securing Australian control of former German New Guinea at the 1919 Paris Peace Conference.

Sir John Forrest was an Australian explorer and politician who made significant contributions to the development of Western Australia and the early Australian federation. He led several successful expeditions into the Australian interior, displaying careful planning and record-keeping. Forrest served as the first premier of Western Australia, overseeing public works projects and social reforms. In federal politics, he held various ministerial positions, playing a key role in shaping defense and financial policies. Forrest's support for federation was instrumental in Western Australia's decision to join as an original member.

Enid Lyons was a trailblazing Australian politician who made history as the first woman to be elected to the House of Representatives and serve in the federal cabinet. She began her career by assisting her husband in his political campaigns before successfully standing for the United Australia Party in the federal parliament. Lyons was known for her public speaking skills, writing newspaper articles, making radio broadcasts, and giving speeches. She later joined the Liberal Party and served as Vice-President of the Executive Council in the Menzies Government.

Brendan Nelson AO is an Australian business leader and former politician who has held various significant roles throughout his career. He served as the federal Leader of the Opposition and as Australia's senior diplomat to the European Union and NATO. With a background in medicine, he also served as Minister for Education, Science and Training, as well as Minister for Defence. After retiring from politics, he took on roles such as Ambassador and Director of the Australian War Memorial. Currently, he holds a global leadership position with Boeing.

William George Hayden was an Australian politician who had a distinguished career in public service. He served as the Leader of the Labor Party and Leader of the Opposition, as well as holding ministerial positions such as Minister for Social Security and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. Hayden also briefly served as Treasurer of Australia. His political career culminated in his appointment as the 21st governor-general of Australia, a position he held for seven years. Throughout his career, Hayden made significant contributions to Australian politics and diplomacy.

Anthony Albanese is an Australian politician who has been serving as the 31st Prime Minister of Australia since 2022. He has been the leader of the Labor Party since 2019 and a member of parliament for the New South Wales division of Grayndler since 1996. Albanese has held various ministerial positions, including Deputy Prime Minister under the Rudd government. He has been actively involved in Australian politics, advocating for party unity, and has made significant contributions in areas such as regional development, infrastructure, and labor law.

Sonia McMahon was an Australian socialite and philanthropist known for her active involvement in various charitable causes. She utilized her position as the wife of Prime Minister Sir Billy McMahon to support numerous initiatives aimed at improving the lives of others. Through her philanthropic work, she made significant contributions to various community projects and organizations, leaving a lasting impact on Australian society. Her dedication to giving back and helping those in need solidified her reputation as a compassionate and caring individual.

Ken Wyatt is an Australian former politician who made history as the first Indigenous Australian elected to the House of Representatives. He represented the Division of Hasluck for the Liberal Party from 2010 to 2022. Wyatt served as Minister for Aged Care, Minister for Indigenous Health, and Minister for Indigenous Australians during his time in government. He resigned from the Liberal Party in 2023 due to disagreements over the party's stance on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum.

Douglas Nicholls was a prominent Aboriginal Australian from the Yorta Yorta people, known for his diverse professional roles. He was a professional athlete, Churches of Christ pastor, church planter, ceremonial officer, and a pioneering campaigner for reconciliation. Nicholls made history as the first Aboriginal Australian to be knighted in 1972. He also served as the Governor of South Australia, becoming the first Indigenous Australian to hold a vice-regal office. His career was marked by dedication to community service and advocacy for Indigenous rights.

Jay Weatherill served as the 45th premier of South Australia from 2011 to 2018, representing the House of Assembly seat of Cheltenham as a member of the South Australian Labor Party. He led the Labor government to become the longest-serving state Labor government in South Australian history during his tenure. Weatherill announced his retirement from Parliament in 2018 after the Labor government lost power in the election. He was succeeded by Peter Malinauskas as the Labor leader.

John McEwen was an Australian politician and farmer who served as the 18th prime minister of Australia in a caretaker capacity following the disappearance of Harold Holt. He was the leader of the Country Party, serving as the inaugural deputy prime minister. McEwen was elected to the House of Representatives in 1934 and spent 36 years in parliament, with 25 years as a government minister. He had a major influence on economic policy, particularly in agriculture, manufacturing, and trade.

Neville Wran was a prominent Australian politician who served as the Premier of New South Wales from 1976 to 1986. He also held key positions within the Australian Labor Party (ALP), including national president. After his political career, Wran continued to contribute to society by serving as chairman of the Lionel Murphy Foundation and the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO). His professional life was marked by a commitment to public service and leadership in both politics and the scientific community.

Francis Michael Forde was an Australian politician who served as the 15th prime minister of Australia in a caretaker capacity following the death of John Curtin. He had a long career in politics, starting as a member of the Queensland Legislative Assembly before moving to the House of Representatives. Forde held various ministerial positions in the Scullin and Curtin governments, including Minister for Trade and Customs and Minister for the Army. He continued to be involved in politics even after losing his seat in 1946, serving as High Commissioner to Canada and attempting to re-enter federal parliament in later years.

Graham Staines was an Australian Christian missionary who dedicated his life to providing care and support to people affected by leprosy and living in poverty in Odisha, India. He worked with an evangelical missionary organization called the "Mayurbhanj Leprosy Home" since 1965. Staines focused on helping the tribal communities in the area and was known for his compassionate service. Despite allegations of forced conversions made by some Hindu groups, there was no evidence to support these claims. Staines's widow, Gladys, continued his work after his tragic death.

Lieutenant General David Lindsay Morrison AO is a retired senior officer of the Australian Army, having served as Chief of Army from June 2011 to May 2015. Known for his leadership and dedication, he has made significant contributions to the military during his tenure. Morrison was recognized for his outstanding service by being named Australian of the Year in 2016. His career highlights include advocating for gender equality and diversity within the armed forces, as well as promoting a culture of respect and inclusivity.

Giovanni Domenic Barilaro is an Australian former politician who held various ministerial positions in the New South Wales government, including Deputy Premier and Leader of the NSW National Party. He represented the electoral district of Monaro in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly. Barilaro gained attention for his involvement in a defamation lawsuit against Jordan Shanks and Google, as well as his controversial appointment as the NSW trade commissioner to the United States, which led to a political scandal and subsequent resignation.

Eric Abetz is an Australian politician who has held various positions in government. He served as a Senator for Tasmania representing the Liberal Party from 1994 to 2022, and currently holds a seat in the Tasmanian House of Assembly. Abetz has been Minister for Employment, Leader of the Government in the Senate, Special Minister of State, and Minister for Fisheries, Forestry, and Conservation. He has a background in law and has been actively involved in political organizations, both at the national and state levels.

Pat Dodson is an Australian indigenous rights activist and former politician. He served as a Senator for Western Australia from 2016 to 2024, representing the Australian Labor Party (ALP). Throughout his career, Dodson has held significant roles including chairman of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation and a Commissioner into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody. He has also been recognized for his contributions, winning the 2008 Sydney Peace Prize and the 2009 John Curtin Medal. Dodson announced his retirement from the Senate in 2023 due to health reasons.

Pauline Hanson is an Australian politician known for founding and leading the right-wing populist political party, One Nation. She entered politics in 1994 as a member of Ipswich City Council and later won a seat in the Australian Senate in 2016. Hanson initially joined the Liberal Party but was disendorsed after controversial comments. She then became an independent MP before founding One Nation in 1997. Despite facing challenges, including a period of imprisonment for electoral fraud, Hanson has remained active in Australian politics, running for various elections and leading One Nation multiple times.

Stanley Melbourne Bruce was an Australian politician, statesman, and businessman. He served as the eighth prime minister of Australia from 1923 to 1929, leading the Nationalist Party. Bruce implemented significant reforms during his time in office, including overhauling federal government administration, transferring the capital to Canberra, and strengthening the role of the Commonwealth. He also played a key role in developing the Australian Federal Police and the CSIRO. Bruce later had a notable international career, advocating for global cooperation and serving as the first Chairman of the Food and Agriculture Organization.

Chris Watson was an Australian politician who served as the third prime minister of Australia from 27 April to 18 August 1904. He was the inaugural federal leader of the Australian Labor Party (ALP) from 1901 to 1907 and was the first member of the party to serve as prime minister. Watson was a key figure in the local labor movement, helped establish the Labor Electoral League of New South Wales, and was a leading figure in the ALP. He supported the White Australia policy and formed a minority government in April 1904 after the ALP withdrew its support from the incumbent prime minister. Watson attracted international attention as one of the first socialists to head a government in a parliamentary system. Despite his short tenure, his term as prime minister demonstrated the ALP's ability to govern competently.

Bob Katter is an Australian politician who has served in both Queensland state politics and the House of Representatives. He was a member of the National Party before becoming an independent and later forming his own party, Katter's Australian Party. Katter held various positions in state politics, including as a government minister. He has been re-elected multiple times, known for his social conservatism. His son, Robbie Katter, also serves as a state MP, continuing the family's political legacy.

Annastacia Palaszczuk is an Australian politician who served as the 39th premier of Queensland from 2015 to 2023. She was the leader of the Queensland branch of the Australian Labor Party and a member of the Legislative Assembly of Queensland for the division of Inala. Palaszczuk succeeded her father in politics and held various roles in the Bligh Government before becoming Leader of the Opposition. She made history by becoming the first woman in Australian history to become a state premier from opposition and led Labor to victory in multiple elections.

Wayne Swan is an Australian politician who has held various significant positions within the Labor Party and the Australian government. He served as the deputy prime minister of Australia and deputy leader of the Labor Party from 2010 to 2013, as well as the treasurer of Australia from 2007 to 2013. Swan played a crucial role in Australia's response to the Global Financial Crisis and was recognized for his financial acumen by Euromoney magazine. His career highlights include being elected as Labor's deputy leader and serving as Finance Minister.

Mark Cutifani CBE is an Australian businessman with a notable career in the mining industry. He has held various executive positions, including as the former chief executive of Anglo American plc and AngloGold Ashanti. Cutifani currently serves as the chairman of the energy transition metals board at Vale Base Metals and as the Senior Independent Director at Laing O'Rourke. He is also involved in sustainability efforts, chairing the board's Sustainability Committee at Total S.A and other organizations. Cutifani is recognized for his contributions to the mining industry through prestigious awards and memberships in engineering institutions.

John Macarthur was a British Army officer, entrepreneur, landowner, and politician known for his significant contributions to the establishment of the colony of New South Wales. He was a key figure in the Australian Merino wool industry, pioneering its development. Macarthur played a central role in organizing the rebellion against Governor William Bligh, known as the Rum Rebellion in January 1808. His professional endeavors saw him leave a lasting impact on the economic and political landscape of colonial Australia.

Edward Gough Whitlam was the 21st prime minister of Australia, serving from 1972 to 1975 as the leader of the Australian Labor Party. He was known for his socially progressive administration and introduction of various reformist policies, such as ending military conscription, providing universal health care and free university education, and implementing legal aid programs. Whitlam's term was marked by economic challenges, political scandals, and ultimately his controversial dismissal by the governor-general in 1975, making him the only Australian prime minister to be removed from office in this manner.