Farewell to Graham Richardson, the Political Powerbroker Who Shaped an Era
Today, the political world in Australia has been gathering in Sydney to farewell Graham Richardson, a man widely regarded as one of the most influential — and often feared — powerbrokers in modern Labor history. His state funeral has drawn in an extraordinary mix of political heavyweights, media figures, and long-time associates, all arriving to pay their respects to a figure who left a deep imprint on national politics.
As the morning unfolded, familiar faces stepped out onto the grounds of St James’ Church, where the service was moved at the last minute after a breakdown in plans with St Mary’s Cathedral. The Catholic Church had reportedly pushed back on certain elements the family wanted — including draping Richardson’s coffin with an Australian flag or the emblem of his beloved St George Dragons. Those requests were said to be “not compatible” with a Catholic funeral rite, so the service was relocated, and the coffin was ultimately carried in proudly wrapped in the Dragons colours.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was among the final arrivals before the service began, preparing to deliver the eulogy for a man he once described as a “formidable character” in the party’s machine. Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles was also set to speak, alongside former Coalition minister Keith Pitt — a sign of just how far Richardson’s influence reached across the political divide.
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The mix of attendees spoke volumes about Richardson’s long and complex legacy. Barnaby Joyce — freshly defected from the Nationals to One Nation — told reporters that Richardson would be remembered for one defining trait: ruthlessness. He joked that in politics, some people carry fire extinguishers while others carry cans of petrol, and Richardson definitely carried the petrol. Yet, that bluntness and appetite for the political fight earned him admirers even from those who often stood opposite him.
A rare public appearance by broadcaster Alan Jones also drew attention. Jones, facing criminal charges and having largely withdrawn from public view, quietly entered through the general entrance. He and Richardson once co-hosted the Sky News program Richo + Jones , a partnership that underscored Richardson’s ability to cross ideological lines when it suited him.
Inside the church, the atmosphere was solemn but filled with respect for a man who helped shape governments, dethroned prime ministers, and transformed the Labor Party into the pragmatic, hard-edged machine it became in his era. Pallbearers included former defence minister Joel Fitzgibbon, philanthropist Roslyn Packer, and even former Socceroo Mark Bosnich — a reminder of Richardson’s wide network and eclectic friendships.
Richardson was many things: strategist, dealmaker, raconteur, “kingmaker” as some called him. Today’s gathering reflected all those identities, honoring a figure who could be divisive, charming, influential, and unstoppable — often all at once. His passing closes a chapter in Australian political history, but the stories, the legend, and the impact he left behind will be talked about for years to come.
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