Michaelia Cash (WA, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

I rise on behalf of the opposition to acknowledge the passing of the Hon. Nick Bolkus, a former senator for South Australia and a former minister of the Commonwealth who passed away on Christmas Day at the age of 75. On behalf of the opposition, I extend condolences to Mr Bolkus's wife, Mary; to his children, Aria, Mikayla and Nicholas; and to his family and those close to him. We recognise the loss they have experienced.

Nick Bolkus served in this parliament for almost 25 years. First elected to the Senate in 1980, he represented South Australia until the conclusion of his term in 2005. Over that period, he was a consistent presence in this chamber, and he held a range of parliamentary and ministerial responsibilities. Born in Adelaide in 1950, Nick Bolkus, as we've now heard, maintained a strong connection, and a passionate connection, to South Australia throughout his life. He represented his state for more than two decades and took a close interest in issues affecting its people and its institutions. Before entering parliament, he trained as a lawyer, graduating with a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Adelaide. His legal background informed much of his parliamentary work, particularly in relation to legislation, committee processes and scrutiny of executive decision-making.

Nick Bolkus was appointed to the ministry in 1988, initially serving as the Minister for Consumer Affairs and Minister Assisting the Treasurer for Prices. He entered cabinet in 1990 and later held portfolios including administrative services; immigration and ethnic affairs; and Minister assisting the Prime Minister for Multicultural Affairs. These portfolios were administered during a period of significant change, and he approached them with a strong focus on policy detail and administration.

During his time as Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, he emphasised the rights and responsibilities associated with citizenship and Australia's democratic framework. As we have heard, one decision from that period that has been widely noted was his involvement in allowing Chinese nationals to remain in Australia following the events at Tiananmen Square in 1989. That decision formed part of Australia's response to an international crisis and remains a significant moment in the history of our immigration system.

After the change of government in 1996, Nick Bolkus continued to serve in parliament in opposition, including in a number of shadow ministerial roles, including shadow Attorney-General and shadow minister for justice, environment and heritage. In those roles, he was an active participant in parliamentary debate and scrutiny. He also made an extensive contribution through Senate committee work, serving on committees dealing with legal and constitutional affairs; foreign affairs and defence; scrutiny of bills; privileges; and estimates. These committees, as all senators know, play a critical role in the functioning of the Senate, and his long involvement reflected his commitment to that work and to this place.

Nick Bolkus was known in this place as a direct and determined debater, strongly committed to advancing his party's positions. At the same time, colleagues have noted his willingness to engage with parliamentary processes and his preparedness to share experiences with others in the chamber.

A parliamentary career places considerable demands on those who undertake it and on their families. Today we acknowledge the support provided by Nick Bolkus's family over many, many years of public service and the loss they now feel. Nick Bolkus served during a period of substantial change in Australian public life. He approached his responsibilities with seriousness and consistency, whether in government, in opposition or in committee work. On behalf of the opposition, I again extend condolences to his family, friends and former colleagues. His service to this parliament and to the people of South Australia is acknowledged.