Ron Boswell, a former Australian Senator for the National Party, has died at the age of 85. Mr. Boswell served in the Senate for 31 years, holding various parliamentary roles and advocating for regional Australia.
Early Life and Parliamentary Entry
Born in Perth, Ron Boswell was largely based in Queensland throughout his life. He was first elected to the Senate in 1983, commencing a parliamentary career that spanned over three decades.
Parliamentary Service and Leadership
Mr. Boswell served as a Senator for 31 years, during which he held the role of National Party leader in the Senate for over 17 years. He successfully sought re-election on six occasions. From 2008 to 2014, he was recognized as the Father of the Senate.
During his time in parliament, Mr. Boswell held positions including Shadow Minister for Regional Development while in opposition. In government, he served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Transport and Regional Services during the Howard government.
He announced his retirement from politics prior to the 2013 federal election and subsequently retired in 2014.
Key Policy Positions and Advocacy
Throughout his career, Mr. Boswell advocated for small business, primary industries, and regional and rural Australia. He also championed traditional family values. Mr. Boswell stated that improvements in rural telecommunications were a significant achievement, and he identified defeating Pauline Hanson and the One Nation party in the 2001 election as his greatest political accomplishment.
He opposed abortion, euthanasia, and same-sex marriage. During a 2012 debate on a Marriage Amendment bill, he made statements in the Senate regarding child-rearing, asserting: "Two mothers or two fathers cannot raise a child properly — who takes a boy to football? How does he go camping and fishing? Yes, there might be some attempt by one of the mothers to fill in as a father figure, but it will not work — it is defying nature." Additionally, he supported the establishment of the Liberal National Party in Queensland following the 2007 federal election.
A notable slogan used in his re-election campaigns was, "Ron Boswell. He's not pretty, but he's pretty effective."
Personal Life
Ron Boswell married Leila Beattie in 1966. Ms. Beattie passed away in 2021.
Tributes
Following his death, various political figures issued statements acknowledging Mr. Boswell:
- Nationals leader David Littleproud acknowledged Mr. Boswell's role as a proponent for families, small business, and regional and rural Australia, noting his understanding of business and dedication.
- Former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce described Mr. Boswell as a mentor.
- Queensland Senator Matt Canavan commented on Mr. Boswell's advocacy for smaller communities and his willingness to champion large-scale ideas, also mentioning his continued engagement with National Party colleagues after retirement.
- Former Queensland Senator Barry O'Sullivan characterized Mr. Boswell as a persistent advocate for rural industries, noting his continued involvement post-retirement.
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese referred to Mr. Boswell as a "great Queenslander" who was passionate about the National Party and the national interest. He further stated that Mr. Boswell would be remembered for taking "principled stances" against those who sought to divide the nation.
- Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott noted Mr. Boswell's commitment to family, small business, and established institutions, adding that his public life was dedicated to the country and the National Party.
- Opposition Leader Sussan Ley extended condolences and described Mr. Boswell as a direct communicator who brought practical experience to parliament, referencing his campaign slogan as reflecting his approach.