Laconic champion of the bush with a national devotion

Tim Fischer always punched hard for the bush, but with an eye for what was right for all Australians.

In the death of Tim Fischer, Australia has lost an authentic character. Tim’s laconic nature endeared him to countless Australians.

As both deputy prime minister and an Australian Army officer in the Vietnam War, Tim Fischer served his country with great distinction in peace and in war. He was a loyal coalitionist. His leadership of the National Party was crucial to our historic victory in March 1996. This inaugurated almost 12 years of successful government that left the Australian economy free of debt and deficits and growing at a robust rate.

Tim’s commitment to the national interest was no better demonstrated than through his support for national gun control laws following the Port Arthur tragedy in April 1996. Although there was overwhelming support for the government’s response to a murderous rampage that claimed 35 lives, that response created severe political difficulties in some parts of regional Australia. The full effect of those difficulties was felt by Tim, his then deputy John Anderson and the National Party premier of Queensland, Rob Borbidge. I shall always be grateful to them for placing the national interest ahead of any local political convenience.

He always punched hard for the bush, but with an eye for what was right for all Australians. Tim was a strong and effective cabinet member with special interests in rural and transport policies as well as foreign affairs and defence.

I place on record both my affection and admiration for his contribution to public life in Australia.

Janette and I extend our deepest sympathy to Judy, Harrison and Dominic, as well as other members of the Fischer family.

John Howard was prime minister from 1996 to 2007