Eric Robinson, Australian businessman and politician, 2nd Australian Minister for Finance (b. 1926)

Eric Laidlaw Robinson: A Key Figure in Australian Federal Politics

Eric Laidlaw Robinson (18 January 1929 – 7 January 1981) was a distinguished Australian politician and a significant figure within the Liberal Party during a pivotal era of federal government. Known for his background as a successful businessman, Robinson transitioned into public service, leaving a notable mark on Australia's economic and administrative landscape.

Parliamentary Career and Representation

Robinson commenced his federal parliamentary career when he was elected to the House of Representatives in 1972. He successfully secured the Queensland seat of McPherson, a diverse electorate encompassing parts of the Gold Coast. He continued to represent the constituents of McPherson consistently from his initial election until his untimely death in 1981, serving nearly a decade in federal parliament.

Ministerial Portfolios in the Fraser Government

Eric Robinson's most prominent contributions were made during his tenure as a minister in the Fraser Government, which held power from 1975 to 1983. He held a series of critical portfolios, demonstrating his versatility and capacity for leadership across various government functions. His ministerial appointments included:

• Minister for the Capital Territory (1975–1976): In this role, Robinson was responsible for the administration and development of Australia's capital, Canberra, and the broader Australian Capital Territory (ACT). This portfolio involved oversight of urban planning, municipal services, and the unique governance arrangements of the national capital prior to its self-government.
• Minister for Post and Telecommunications (1976–1977): This portfolio was central to Australia's communication infrastructure and services. Robinson's responsibilities included overseeing the operations of Australia Post, the then-governmental telecommunications giant Telecom Australia (the predecessor to Telstra), and aspects of broadcasting policy and regulation. This period was crucial for the development and expansion of modern communication networks across the nation.
• Minister for Finance (1977–1979, 1979–1980): Robinson's most impactful and demanding role was undoubtedly as Minister for Finance. In this key economic portfolio, he played a crucial role in shaping the federal budget, managing government expenditure, and contributing significantly to the nation's overall economic policy. His tenure coincided with a challenging global economic climate, marked by high inflation and unemployment in the aftermath of the 1970s oil crises. As Finance Minister, he was instrumental in implementing the Fraser Government's fiscal strategies, often focusing on expenditure restraint and economic management. His two separate terms in this role underscore the importance and continuity of his involvement in the government's financial strategy.

Legacy and Untimely Passing

Eric Robinson's political career, marked by significant ministerial responsibilities, came to an end with his death on 7 January 1981. He passed away while still serving as the Member for McPherson. His contributions to the Fraser Government's economic and administrative agenda, particularly in the critical Finance portfolio, are an important part of Australia's political history. He is remembered as a diligent minister who navigated complex policy challenges during a period of considerable economic change.

Frequently Asked Questions about Eric Laidlaw Robinson

When did Eric Robinson serve as a federal minister?

Eric Robinson served as a federal minister in the Malcolm Fraser-led Liberal Government from 1975 to 1980, holding the portfolios of Minister for the Capital Territory, Post and Telecommunications, and Finance.

Which parliamentary seat did Eric Robinson represent?

He represented the Queensland federal electorate of McPherson in the House of Representatives from 1972 until his death in 1981.

What was Eric Robinson's most significant ministerial role?

His most prominent and impactful role was as Minister for Finance, a portfolio he held twice (1977–1979 and 1979–1980), where he was crucial in managing the federal budget and economic policy during a challenging economic period.