Key Takeaways
- Nick Bolkus, a former federal Labor minister, has passed away peacefully on Christmas morning
- Bolkus was the first Greek Australian to serve as a cabinet minister and held various ministerial positions under the Hawke and Keating governments
- He was a dedicated servant to the Labor Party and the country, and his legacy will be remembered for his contributions to immigration and ethnic affairs
- Bolkus is survived by his wife and three children, and his memory will be cherished by his family, friends, and the Labor Party
Introduction to Nick Bolkus’ Life and Career
Nick Bolkus, a former federal Labor minister, has died peacefully on Christmas morning, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service to the Labor Party and the country. Born in Adelaide in 1950, Bolkus began his political career at the age of 16, helping to hand-deliver letters to the Greek electorate in Don Dunstan’s campaign in the city’s north-east. This early start in politics laid the foundation for his future career, which would see him become one of South Australia’s longest-serving senators and a cabinet minister under the Hawke and Keating governments.
Tributes from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Premier Peter Malinauskas
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has paid tribute to Bolkus, describing him as a "great son" of the Labor Party. Albanese praised Bolkus’ idealism and sense of urgency, which he maintained throughout his long and distinguished career. He also highlighted Bolkus’ commitment to reforming the instruments and power of government to better serve the aspirations and rights of everyday Australians. Similarly, South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas has honored Bolkus’ service, describing him as a dedicated servant and a great champion of the Labor Party. Malinauskas noted that Bolkus was most proud of his decision to allow tens of thousands of Chinese citizens to remain in Australia following the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre, a decision that demonstrated his humanity and moral leadership.
Nick Bolkus’ Ministerial Career and Achievements
Bolkus’ ministerial career was marked by several notable achievements. Under Keating’s new government in 1993, he served as minister for immigration and ethnic affairs and minister assisting the prime minister for multicultural affairs. He also acted as minister for consumer affairs, assisting the treasurer for prices and administrative services under Hawke. Additionally, Bolkus served as the shadow attorney-general and minister for justice and environment and heritage. His work in these portfolios demonstrated his commitment to serving the needs of everyday Australians and promoting the values of the Labor Party.
Personal Life and Legacy
Bolkus is survived by his wife Mary, and three children, Aria, Mikayla, and Nick. He was known for his love of his home state, South Australia, and his family and community could often find him at Joe’s kiosk at Henley Beach. Bolkus’ legacy will be remembered for his contributions to the Labor Party and the country, and his memory will be cherished by his family, friends, and colleagues. As Prime Minister Albanese noted, Bolkus’ memory will "love long in Labor hearts," and he will be remembered as a dedicated servant and a great champion of the Labor Party.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Nick Bolkus’ passing is a significant loss for the Labor Party and the country. His dedication and service to the party and the nation will be remembered for generations to come. Through his ministerial career and personal life, Bolkus demonstrated his commitment to serving the needs of everyday Australians and promoting the values of the Labor Party. His legacy will continue to inspire and motivate future generations of politicians and community leaders, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him. As the Labor Party and the country mourn the loss of this great son, they can take comfort in the knowledge that his contributions will never be forgotten.
