Former South Australian Premier Steele Hall is being remembered as a “legend” of politics following his death on Monday, aged 95.
Hall became the state’s leader from 1968 to 1970, before leading the Liberal opposition until he resigned from state politics in 1972.
A few years later, Hall switched to federal politics, becoming senator and then member for Boothby in the House of Representatives.
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Premier Peter Malinauskas has offered Hall’s family a state funeral to honour his legacy.
He said, “Hall is rightly seen as a significant figure in the history of South Australian politics.”
“He leaves behind a reputation for integrity and political courage, a man who truly put his state ahead of party political interests,” Malinauskas said in a statement.
“On behalf of the State Government, I wish to pass on my condolences to Steele’s wife Joan, his six children, six grandchildren and his family and friends.”
Deputy Opposition leader John Gardner said Hall left a legacy of “great courage and deep principle.”
“His term was marked by far-sighted achievement and constitutional reform, including modernisation of electoral laws which were necessary for the state’s future, even though they damaged his own chances of re-election,” Gardner said.
“His term in office saw significant progress in other areas including women’s health, Aboriginal affairs, and the fluoridation of South Australia’s water supply — a measure controversial at the time but which has led to significant dental health improvements for generations of South Australians.”
Shadow Minister for foreign affairs Simon Birmingham called Hall a “legend of South Australian politics.”
“I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have spent valuable time with Steele in my most formative political years, from work experience in his electorate office as a teenager to many discussions with Joan and Steele in their family home,” Birmingham said.
“To see Steele speak to an audience was a display of persuasive force, deep insight and the wisdom that came from so many years of political discourse.
“I extend my love and condolences to Joan, along with Steele’s children, grandchildren and all those who loved and respected him.”
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