I write to pay my tribute to Bob Hawke, the 23th Prime Minister of Australia, who has played a pivotal role in advancing and defining Australian multiculturalism. Between 1987 and 1996 I have had the privilege of working under the leadership of Professor Peter Shergold in the Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) created by Prime Minister Hawke in the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.

OMA was responsible for development of a range of multicultural policies and programs. In particular, I wish to acknowledge Hawke’s Government adoption of the National Agenda for a Multicultural Australia and of the Access and Equity policies. Hawke’s government made federal policies and programs more reflective of Australia’s diversity.

My thoughts are with his family at this time.

Vale Bob Hawke.