Rob served Victoria and Australia with distinction through his Parliamentary career and with a lifetime of dedicated public service.
A farmer and family man from Clarendon, Rob was elected to the Victorian Parliament in 1976, representing the Ballarat Province in the Victorian Legislative Council until 1999. He held several senior ministerial roles as Minister for Housing (1992–1996), Minister for Aged Care (1992–1999), and Minister for Health (1996–1999).
In these roles, Rob led significant reform, including strengthening palliative care policy and services and improving the quality and sustainability of health care for Victorians.
Following his parliamentary career, Rob continued to serve through senior leadership and board roles, including as Commissioner of the National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission, Chair of the Victorian Health Reform and Innovation Council, and Chair of the Board of the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne.
Committed to reducing the toll of poor mental health and suicide in Australia, Rob also served on the board of Beyond Blue and later became Deputy Chair, helping guide the organisation’s strategy and significant national impact. He was also one of Australia’s inaugural Commissioners of the National Mental Health Commission.
Rob served as Director at Ballarat Grammar from 2000 and as Chair of Board from 2008 to 2018, where he provided steady governance and leadership, always focused on the students and families.
In 2007 Rob was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for distinguished service of a high degree. He was appointed an Honorary Old Grammarian of Ballarat Grammar in 2014, and a Life Governor in 2019.
Rob’s legacy is one of public service and reform. His work in housing, health, aged care and mental health continues to benefit Victorians and Australians.
Donations
In lieu of flowers, and at the request of Rob’s family, memorial donations may be made to The Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation.
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