The country bid adieu to the former governor-general and ex-leader of the Labor Party, Bill Hayden, in a reverential state funeral. Mr. Hayden, who breathed his last in October at the ripe age of 90 following a prolonged illness, was celebrated as the force behind the conception of Medicare.
Mr. Hayden, often revered as the finest man to never have occupied the position of the prime minister, left a mark as a towering figure in the party. His remarkable contribution helped reshape the Labor Party’s direction and focus, particularly through his efforts to succeed and continue the legacy of Gough Whitlam, former Labor leader.
In a grandiose tribute to Mr. Hayden’s life and contribution, dignitaries and political stalwarts, including the likes of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, past prime ministers including Paul Keating, and the Governor-General David Hurley were present at the memorial service held in Ipswich.
Reflecting on Mr. Hayden’s eminent career, Prime Minister Albanese emphasized his stature as a radical social and economic reformer, which has cemented his enduring legacy. He acclaimed Mr. Hayden’s fortitude and resilience that illuminated the broader path of future progress for the Labor movement.
In an emotional tribute, Georgina, the eldest surviving daughter of Mr. Hayden, chose to break conventions by withholding personal anecdotes and memories about her father. Instead, she underscored the shared traits and values they inherited from him, coupled with a singular sense of humor that runs in the family.
Born in 1933 to a working-class household in Brisbane, Mr. Hayden began his professional journey as a public servant, later shifting to law enforcement while pursuing studies part-time. His foray into federal politics began with a victorious run for the Queensland seat of Oxley in 1961.
Mr. Hayden’s prominent roles include serving as the social security minister and treasurer in the Whitlam administration, and foreign minister under Bob Hawke. His leadership and significant contributions played a key role in revitalizing the Labor Party.
A staunch advocate for social benefits, he implemented the universal health insurance scheme Medibank, a predecessor to Medicare, and the single mother’s pension during Whitlam’s term. Despite being a republican, Mr. Hayden also served a seven-year term as governor-general.
Former prime minister Keating mourned Mr. Hayden’s demise and recognized his unparalleled dedication and immeasurable contributions to the country. Despite being reserved and humble, Mr. Hayden’s monumental role in re-establishing federal Labor as a central force stands out as the pinnacle of his extensive public career.
The late Mr. Hayden’s resonant legacy is carried forward by his wife Dallas and their three surviving children. His life and contributions have forever etched a profound impact on the social and political landscape of the nation.
