THE HON ANDREW PEACOCK AC

It was with deep sadness and a profound sense of loss that I learnt of the passing of Andrew Sharp Peacock.  

 

He served twice as leader of the Liberal Party, and before he entered politics served as President of the Young Liberals.

 

He helped strengthen our relationship with our close friend and ally as Ambassador to the United States. His lasting legacy will be his role in Papua New Guinea’s independence. As Minister for External Territories, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Army, Andrew had a consistent and firm belief in the independence and self-determination of the people of Papua New Guinea, which he carried throughout his later life, including during his time as Ambassador to the US. 

 

It is for this dedication to the future of Papua New Guinea that he was given the highest award of that nation and made a Grand Companion of Logohu. Papua New Guinea remains a close and much respected friend of Australia to this day, building on the foundations of trust and confidence so solidly set by Andrew in the 1970s. 

 

Personally, I will miss my dear friend Andrew. Since I worked on his team as Deputy Leader of the Opposition and Shadow Treasurer in 1983-1984, he has been a valued mentor over more than three decades. I have appreciated the discussions I have had with him in my roles as Australia’s Defence Minister and Foreign Minister and valued his insights. He was a great leader and a great Australian, and a champion of the Liberal Party.

 

As we mourn Andrew’s passing we give thanks for his dedicated service to Australia as a politician and as a diplomat, and we celebrate his life achievements.

 

To Penne, Ann, Jane and Caroline and their families I send my sincere condolences.

 

Vale Andrew Sharp Peacock.