Fairfield City Council has paid tribute to Australia’s 21st Prime Minister, The Honourable Edward Gough Whitlam AC QC, who passed away today aged 98.
The Mayor of Fairfield City, Frank Carbone, said Whitlam was highly committed to his electorate of Werriwa.
“Gough Whitlam sought improved services and amenities for the area.
“This included his work in drawing up the legal paperwork to establish the Cabravale Diggers Club, which is still a major institution in the area today.”
Fairfield City Council reported that Whitlam was attentive to the needs of his community, and when his electorate office was closed on weekends, a line would form outside his family home, with constituents being invited into his living room to discuss their concerns.
“Gough’s wife Margaret was also strongly involved in the local community.
“Her lobbying led to the opening of the first swimming pool in the area, where she served as president and also taught local children to swim”.
As Prime Minister, he achieved many key reforms including improving pay rates for women, abolishing national service, improving Aboriginal rights and reducing the voting age to 18.
He was also the first Prime Minister to establish diplomatic relations with China, abolished the White Australia Policy and introduced the policy of multiculturalism.
“Whitlam’s legacy of multiculturalism for Australia has had a huge positive impact here in Fairfield City,” said Mayor Carbone.
“His commitment to diversity has contributed to the strength of our community.”
