The Hon. Norman Henry Lacy lived an accomplished life as a principled, family man dedicated to improving lives through public service and education.
Born and raised in Richmond, Norman first served Victoria in the Australian Junior Basketball Championships, winning the Best and Fairest Player award in 1958.
He began his career in his family plumbing business in Richmond, before studying Theology at Ridley College and being ordained as an Anglican priest. Over the next ten years he served three parishes: Caulfield, Richmond and the joint parish of Healesville, Yarra Glen and Christmas Hill. He was committed to the ecumenical movement and active in pastoral care at numerous local aged care facilities.
Norman was elected to the Victorian Parliament in 1973, proudly representing both Ringwood and Warrandyte, and was Secretary of the Parliamentary Liberal Party from 1976 to 1979.
Committed to his principles, he was a key figure in the debates that led to the permanent removal of the death penalty from Victorian law. He was also instrumental in ensuring adequate funding for the Foster Grandparents Scheme, Kew Cottages and agencies supporting children with intellectual disabilities.
As Minister for the Arts, he left an indelible mark on Victoria through the construction of the Victorian Arts Centre and its iconic spire, and the creation of Film Victoria (now VicScreen).
He also established both Heide Museum of Modern Art and the award-winning Australian Children's Television Foundation.
As Assistant Minister of Education and Minister of Educational Services, Norman was vocal in championing an education system that empowered school communities and councils, the introduction of paternity leave for teachers, compulsory physical education and measures to help children with learning difficulties.
After leaving Parliament in 1982, Norman built a successful career in management education and consulting.
He went on to shape the futures of managers in both Australia and China at the Australian Management College, before landing executive roles in the information technology industry as a new digital era dawned.
His leadership was well recognised, and from 2008 until 2018 he served as President of Self-Employed Australia, where he was appointed the first life member in recognition of his service.
Norman’s contributions to the arts, education and industry have left a legacy that will continue to endure across Victoria.
Updated