Petro Georgiou, a former federal Liberal MP renowned for his commitment to public service, has passed away at the age of 77. He represented the Kooyong electorate in the Australian Parliament from 1994 until his retirement in 2010, concluding a 35-year political career.
Josh Frydenberg, who succeeded Georgiou in Kooyong before losing the seat to Monique Ryan in 2022, expressed that Georgiou was highly regarded for his integrity, intelligence, and dedication to the community. Frydenberg noted that like his predecessor, Andrew Peacock, Georgiou was a small ‘l’ Liberal who made a significant impact on Australian politics. He was acclaimed for his strategic political approach, profound policy understanding, and steadfast adherence to liberal principles.
During Malcolm Fraser’s government from 1975 to 1979, Georgiou was a key adviser, advocating for multiculturalism in Australia and playing a pivotal role in establishing the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS). Moreover, he served as the first director of the Australian Institute of Multicultural Affairs from 1980 to 1985. Georgiou also held the position of state director for the Liberal Party, where he was instrumental in Jeff Kennett’s electoral success in Victoria in 1992.
Georgiou is remembered not only for his political achievements but also for his values and contributions to society, especially as a champion of multiculturalism. He is survived by his partner Roxanne and their children, Dino and Alexia.