Parliament remembers John Spender

25 October 2022

Federal parliament has heard condolences for John Spender, the former federal member for North Sydney (1980-1990) who passed away this month at the age of 86.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said “Your father so fervently believed that your place was here. Your success in the election must have added such a glow to his final months and such pride. Mr. Speaker, the focus on John Spender’s time as the member for North Sydney would be like choosing one element from what was a lifetime of accomplishment. He was a shadow minister, barrister, ambassador. Husband to Carla Zampatti and then to Catherine Spender. And of course, he was a father, step father and grandfather. Throughout it all, he was a man of decency, grace, reflection and good humour. He was also an upstanding member of the Liberal Party, the son of Liberal Cabinet Minister Sir Percy Spender, no less.”

Opposition leader Peter Dutton said “Being awarded the French Legion of Honour for his efforts on the death of his father, Percy. John would say the loss of a great man is not simply an occasion for sadness, although grief is inseparable from the event, it is a time for public remembrance and thanks and for rejoicing in life which has been richly spent, Just as the son said that of his father that week, that we can say the same of the father’s son. In summing up John’s life, we need only to turn to the touching words of the Spender who has followed in her family’s footsteps.

The member for Wentworth described her father as a man who reflected on the world, always questioned it, loved good conversation and was gracious to the end.”

The member for Wentworth and daughter, Allegra Spender, then said: “I remember the day that he lost his seat. Sitting together at breakfast, writing a list of things that we could do now that he was out. It was a very difficult time for him rebuilding his life outside this place. I learned from him then that when you were in Parliament, make the most of it. You don’t have a second to lose. But remember, one day you will be out and it will be over and be ready for that too. 35 years ago, my father gave a condolence speech in the house for his father, my grandfather. He also served in the federal parliament. There is a certain poignancy in that, though. If any of my children stand for Parliament, I know it will be time to get my affairs in order!”