Penny Wong (SA, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

I move:

That the Senate records its sadness at the death, on 8 August 2025, of John Odin Wentworth Watson AM, former senator for Tasmania, places on record its gratitude for his service to the Parliament and the nation, and tenders its sympathy to his family in their bereavement.

I rise on behalf of the government to acknowledge the passing of former senator for Tasmania John Watson on 8 August 2025 at the age of 88. At the outset of my remarks, I want to convey the government's condolences to his wife, Jocelyn; to Mr Geoff Watson and Mrs Rosemary Pollock, who are in attendance today; to his other children, Ian and Fiona; to their partners; to his many grandchildren; and to parliamentary colleagues who are mourning his passing.

John Watson was born in Launceston in 1937, and he studied commerce and economics at the University of Tasmania before embarking on a professional career as a chartered accountant, company director and lecturer at Launceston Technical College and the Tasmanian College of Advanced Education. Before entering politics, he managed a textile manufacturing company, an experience that shaped his deep interest for industry in regional communities, and he was profoundly affected by the closure of textile mills in Launceston, something he remarked as underpinning his decision to seek public office. John Watson was elected to the Senate in 1977, and he served Tasmania for three decades. Upon his retirement at the conclusion of his term in 2008, he held the position of what was described as the Father of the Senate. He had parliamentary service that was extensive.

I had the privilege of serving with Senator Watson. I remember him as courteous and conscientious. I remember him as a senator far more focused on policy than on partisanship. He held positions on nearly every major committee, from finance and public administration to economics and community affairs. He was temporary chair of committees for over a decade, and he held responsibility as shadow parliamentary secretary to the deputy leader of the opposition in the early nineties. But I think it is the case that it was through his committee that John Watson made his greatest mark. He served for many years on what we'd describe as JCPAA, the Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit, working to strengthen accountability and transparency of government.

I think it is undeniable that his most prominent and probably most influential work was in chairing the Senate Select Committee on Superannuation for a decade, contributing ably to the foundations of Australia's modern retirement income system. His work in this area was recognised across party lines. Labor under Hawke and Keating of course conceived of universal superannuation, but, as Senator Watson noted in his valedictory, it fell to him as the Chair of the Senate Select Committee on Superannuation to persuade his own party to accept it. This is a very important contribution, and it was one that was rightly acknowledged at the time by the then Labor minister for superannuation and fellow Tasmanian senator, Nick Sherry. I do recall we used to say that the Tasmanians had the superannuation sewn up.

John Watson's background in commerce and taxation meant he understood technical detail and financial implications as well as the long-term benefits of universal superannuation, and importantly he used that understanding to build consensus. As a direct result our superannuation system became one of the strongest in the world. In this way, John Watson contributed to a more secure retirement for millions of Australians, and this is a fine legacy.

Beyond superannuation Senator Watson was a strong advocate for Tasmania, campaigning for infrastructure. He fought for Tasmanian exporters, and he stood by communities facing industrial and economic decline. I remember him as someone who worked with people across political difference, and I remember him as someone who always carried himself with the dignity and courtesy in this place that earns respect from all sides. John Watson was also a man of principle and a man of faith. A committed Christian, he served as Secretary of the Parliamentary Christian Fellowship, helping to establish the first National Prayer Breakfast in Canberra, an event that continues to this day.

He was a man known for his humility. He found his calling in committee rooms, in patient work and in improving policies in ways that have outlasted political cycles. He was a compassionate man. This was evident in his advocacy for refugees and new arrivals to Australia, helping many individuals and families to secure a future in their new home. His valedictory speech in 2008 is notable for its humility, particularly given the length and breadth of his service. In it he reiterated his view:

Those on low incomes, the disadvantaged and refugees, in fact all those who have had difficulty in getting their voice heard, have been high on my agenda.

In remembering John Watson, we recall a life of service to Tasmania, to the Senate and to Australia. Once again, on behalf of the government, I express my condolences following the passing of John Watson AM and extend my sympathies to all who loved him.