Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff, Archbishop Porteus among Pope Francis mourners

Tasmania’s Premier and Archbishop are among many leaders across Australia and the globe paying tribute to Pope Francis after he died on Easter Monday. Read the tributes.

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Tasmania’s Premier is among many leaders across Australia and the globe paying tribute to Pope Francis after he died on Easter Monday.

The Vatican on Tuesday released more details of Pope Francis’ death, saying he died of a stroke, causing a coma and “irreversible” heart failure.

“On behalf of all Tasmanians, I’d like to express my condolences to our Catholic community after the passing of Pope Francis,” Premier Jeremy Rockliff posted on social media.

“His commitment to compassion and love of humanity, while leading well over a billion faithful Catholics, will ensure his legacy is one of fond remembrance. May he rest in peace.”

Archbishop Julian Porteous at St Mary's Cathedral. Picture: Zak Simmonds

Hobart Archbishop Julian Porteous said he joined with Catholics around the world in grieving Francis’ passing.

“From the time of his election in 2013, Pope Francis brought a warmth and joy to the papacy, and a desire to be close to people,” Archbishop Porteous said.

“He also desired a church where the faithful felt a sense of belonging and welcome, regardless of their geographical location or social status.

“Hence, his constant refrain about the need to reach out to those ‘on the peripheries’ of human society, to offer them our love and to hear their voices.”

Pope Francis has been remembered. / AFP PHOTO / Alberto PIZZOLI

Hobart butcher Tasmanian Prime Meat shared their condolences on social media, saying “our hearts are heavy” while remembering Pope Francis, who “worked tirelessly for peace, justice, and the dignity of every human being”.

“We’ve proudly served people from all walks of life — from the Christian, Islamic, Hindu, Jewish, and many other faith communities. We’ve always believed that respect, kindness, and understanding are what truly bring people together — beyond labels, beyond difference,” they shared.

“Pope Francis wasn’t just a religious figure — he was a voice for the voiceless. He spoke out against the killing of civilians in Palestine and elsewhere, reminding the world that the lives of children, families, and innocent people matter more than power or politics.”

They wrapped up their message by saying while every life had its end, “it’s what we stand for in between that defines us”.

“Today, we remember not only Pope Francis, but also all those suffering from war, violence, and injustice around the world. Whether it’s Gaza, Sudan, Ukraine, or anywhere else — may their pain not be forgotten,” they said.

“May we all keep working toward a world that’s more just, more united, and more peaceful — one small act of kindness at a time.”

Originally published as Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff, Archbishop Porteus among Pope Francis mourners