Former federal minister Nick Bolkus has died at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy as a significant figure in shaping modern multicultural Australia. The announcement of his passing was made by South Australia Premier Peter Malinauskas on social media, where he noted that Bolkus “passed away peacefully” on the morning of October 5, 2023.
Malinauskas described Bolkus as a “long-time Labor stalwart” who was deeply respected across political divides. He emphasized Bolkus’s formidable intellect, tireless advocacy for the Labor Party, and his role as a generous mentor. “He was much loved by his family, colleagues, and friends,” Malinauskas stated.
In a tribute on Instagram, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed that Labor “mourns one of our great sons.” He reminisced about Bolkus’s journey into public life, highlighting his youthful idealism and urgency that remained throughout his distinguished career. Bolkus was the first Greek Australian to serve as a cabinet minister, a significant milestone in Australian political history.
Born in Adelaide on July 17, 1950, Bolkus entered politics at a remarkably young age. He began his political journey during former Premier Don Dunstan’s campaign in Norwood in 1966, hand-delivering letters to Greek voters. He was elected as a senator for South Australia in 1980 and served in various capacities, including as a minister in the Hawke and Keating governments.
Bolkus was first appointed as a minister under Prime Minister Bob Hawke in 1988. Following the re-election of the Keating government in 1993, he took on the roles of Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, as well as Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Multicultural Affairs. He held these positions until Labor’s loss in the 1996 federal election.
Malinauskas noted Bolkus’s significant contributions to Australian society, particularly his pride in facilitating the residency of tens of thousands of Chinese citizens following the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests. His efforts played a crucial role in shaping the multicultural landscape of contemporary Australia.
Nick Bolkus is survived by his wife, Mary, and their three children: daughters Aria and Mikayla, and son Nick. Aria Bolkus is currently set to run as the Labor candidate for Colton in the upcoming 2026 South Australian election, continuing the family’s political legacy.
Bolkus’s death marks the end of an era for many within the Labor Party and the broader Australian community, reflecting a profound loss for those who knew and admired his dedication to public service and advocacy for multiculturalism.
