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Robert AskinAustralian politician and the 32nd Premier of New South Wales
Date of Birth: 04.04.1907
Country:  Australia |
Content:
- Robert Askin: A Controversial Australian Politician
- Political Career
- Premiership
- Late Career and Controversies
- Legacy
Robert Askin: A Controversial Australian Politician
Early Life and EducationSir Robert William Askin was born on April 4, 1907, in Sydney, New South Wales. He was the eldest of three sons born to Ellen Laura Holliday and William James Askin. His parents later married in 1916. Askin attended school and later won a scholarship to study at Sydney Technical High School, where one of his classmates was the famous aviator Charles Kingsford Smith. As a student, Askin excelled in mathematics and history, and he enjoyed swimming and playing rugby.
Political Career
After working in banking and serving as a sergeant in World War II, Askin joined the Liberal Party. He was elected to the New South Wales Legislative Assembly in 1950, representing the electorate of Collaroy. Askin rose through the party ranks, becoming deputy leader of the Liberal Party in 1954. When the party's long-standing leader resigned in 1954, Askin put himself forward as a candidate for the position. However, he lost to Pat Morton, and Askin continued to serve as deputy leader until Morton lost his position in 1959, and Askin succeeded him.
Premiership
In May 1965, Askin led the Liberal Party to victory against the Labor government, ending Labor's 24-year rule. Askin's government was characterized by significant urban development and infrastructure projects, as well as the restoration of postal voting in New South Wales. However, Askin's policies also faced criticism, particularly the demolition of the Sydney City Council in 1967 and the rapid development of Sydney, often at the expense of architectural heritage and historic buildings.
Late Career and Controversies
Askin remained Premier of New South Wales for a record three terms, but his record was later surpassed by Neville Wran and Bob Carr. In the latter years of his premiership, Askin became embroiled in allegations of organized crime and corruption in the state government. Despite responding to these claims by citing his high salary, modest lifestyle, and investment savvy, an Australian Taxation Office review conducted after his death found no evidence of criminal connections but also left the sources of his wealth unexplained.
Legacy
Robert Askin died in 1981, leaving behind a legacy of both political achievements and controversies. His premiership saw significant economic growth and infrastructure development but also raised concerns about architectural preservation and government corruption. Askin's political career and personal wealth continue to be the subject of debate and speculation.
