The passing of Bob Hawke is met with great sadness by all Australians.

Bob was Australia’s greatest peacetime Prime Minister. It was Bob’s great social and economic reforms that led to our nation’s prosperity, which we continue to enjoy today and will continue to be enjoyed by future generations of Australians.

The Hawke era championed a period of great economic and social change, long-lasting environmental policies and staunch anti-racism.

My family migrated to Australia when Bob had just been elected Prime Minister. His policies, programs and moral leadership made my family feel valued and gave us every opportunity to succeed and contribute to our nation.

We will always be grateful for the Hawke Prime Ministership and his creation of a confident, compassionate and caring society for every Australian.

Bob had an extraordinary ability to connect with every Australian, everywhere. A proud patriot with a sharp intellect, Bob was a true people’s PM. People loved him and he loved people.

My condolences to Blanche and his family as we mourn one of Australia’s greatest leaders. He will forever occupy a special place in our hearts.

In solidarity, forever.