Bertram Stevens, Australian accountant and politician, 25th Premier of New South Wales (d. 1973)

Sir Bertram Stevens: Navigating New South Wales Through the Great Depression

Sir Bertram Sydney Barnsdale Stevens (2 January 1889 – 24 March 1973), widely known as B. S. B. Stevens, stands as a significant figure in Australian political history. He served as the 25th Premier of New South Wales (NSW) for seven years, from 1932 to 1939, leading the state branch of the United Australia Party (UAP) during one of the most challenging periods in the state's history: the Great Depression.

Early Life and Political Beginnings

Born and raised in Sydney, Stevens embarked on a career that would provide him with invaluable experience for his later political roles. Before entering the legislative arena, he established himself as an accomplished accountant and public servant. This background instilled in him a meticulous approach to financial management, a skill that proved crucial during his tenure as a political leader. His journey into state politics began at the 1927 New South Wales state election, where he successfully secured a seat in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly as a representative of the Nationalist Party.

His capabilities were quickly recognised, leading to his appointment as State Treasurer in 1929 under the premiership of Thomas Bavin. In this capacity, Stevens was at the forefront of managing New South Wales's finances as the world began to plunge into the severe economic downturn of the Great Depression. His term as Treasurer concluded when the Nationalist Party lost the 1930 election to the Labor Party, led by Jack Lang.

Rise to Premiership: The Context of Lang's Dismissal

The early 1930s in New South Wales were marked by intense political and economic turbulence. In 1932, a pivotal moment in Australian constitutional history paved the way for Stevens's ascent to the premiership. That year, Stevens was elected as the inaugural leader of the New South Wales branch of the United Australia Party (UAP). The UAP was a newly formed conservative political party, established at the federal level in 1931 through the merger of various non-Labor factions, primarily to counter the Labor Party during the Depression.

Later in 1932, the incumbent Labor Premier, Jack Lang, was controversially dismissed from office by the Governor of New South Wales, Sir Philip Game. This unprecedented constitutional intervention stemmed from Lang's steadfast refusal to pay interest on the state's overseas debts to the British government, a policy known as the "Lang Plan," which put him at loggerheads with the federal government and Commonwealth financial institutions. Following this dramatic dismissal, Sir Bertram Stevens was called upon to form a caretaker government, leading his party into an immediate state election.

Stevens' Premiership: Economic Management and Electoral Dominance

Sir Bertram Stevens successfully led the UAP to victory in the subsequent 1932 state election, securing his position as Premier. His government inherited a state grappling with immense economic hardship, high unemployment, and severe financial instability. As Premier, Stevens championed a policy of fiscal conservatism and retrenchment, prioritising the restoration of financial discipline and confidence in the state's economy. His administration focused on reducing government expenditure, balancing budgets, and working collaboratively with the Commonwealth government to manage the economic crisis. While these measures were often stringent, they were instrumental in stabilising New South Wales's finances and laying the groundwork for eventual recovery.

Stevens's leadership during this challenging period resonated with the electorate. He achieved a remarkable feat, leading the United Australia Party to three consecutive electoral victories in 1932, 1935, and 1938, demonstrating significant public trust in his government's approach to the Depression's challenges.

The End of an Era and Later Life

Despite his electoral successes, internal party dynamics and growing fatigue within his administration ultimately led to his downfall. In 1939, Sir Bertram Stevens was ousted as Premier by a vote within his own party and was replaced by Alexander Mair. This marked the end of his significant tenure at the helm of New South Wales politics.

Following his premiership, Stevens made an abortive attempt to enter federal politics at the 1940 election, but this was unsuccessful. After this, he largely withdrew from public life, playing a minimal role in political affairs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sir Bertram Stevens

Who was Sir Bertram Stevens?

Sir Bertram Sydney Barnsdale Stevens was an Australian politician who served as the 25th Premier of New South Wales from 1932 to 1939. He led the state branch of the United Australia Party.

What political party did B.S.B. Stevens belong to?

He was initially a member of the Nationalist Party in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly and later became the inaugural leader of the New South Wales branch of the United Australia Party (UAP).

When did Sir Bertram Stevens serve as Premier of New South Wales?

He served as Premier from 1932 to 1939.

What was the historical context of Sir Bertram Stevens' premiership?

His premiership occurred during the height of the Great Depression, a period of severe economic hardship, and immediately followed the controversial dismissal of Premier Jack Lang.

How many elections did B.S.B. Stevens win as Premier?

He successfully led his party to victory in three consecutive state elections: 1932, 1935, and 1938.

Why was Jack Lang dismissed, leading to Stevens's premiership?

Jack Lang, the Labor Premier, was dismissed by the Governor of New South Wales, Sir Philip Game, due to his refusal to pay interest on the state's overseas debts to the British government during the Great Depression, which was in defiance of federal financial policies.