The Victorian Government has confirmed a State Funeral to celebrate the life of former minister, Robert Ian Knowles AO, will be held on 15 May.
Premier Jacinta Allan said Mr Knowles (pictured) had served Victoria with distinction both in Parliament and through a lifetime of public service.
Mr Knowles passed away on 29 April.
“Rob championed reform across our health, aged care and mental health sectors throughout his 23 years of parliamentary service and beyond,” she said.
“He gave so much to his community and our state, and he will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude.”
A farmer and family man from Clarendon, Mr Knowles was elected to the Victorian Parliament in 1976 – representing Ballarat Province in the Legislative Council until 1999.
He went on to serve as Minister for Housing, Minister for Aged Care and Minister for Health.
In these roles, he strengthened palliative care and improved the quality and sustainability of Victoria’s health system, the Premier said.
Following his parliamentary career Rob took on leadership and board roles, including Commissioner of the National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission, Chair of the Victorian Health Reform and Innovation Council and Chair of the Board of the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne.
He was also committed to improving mental health outcomes, serving on the board of Beyond Blue, later as Deputy Chair, and was one of the inaugural Commissioners of the National Mental Health Commission, the Government said in a statement.
In a statement, Beyond Blue said: “Rob cared deeply about reducing the impact of poor mental health and suicide on families and communities. He drew on decades of public service, while remaining grounded by his life as a farmer, father and grandfather. His leadership, counsel, compassion and quiet steadiness will be greatly missed.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Rob’s wife Carmel, his children, grandchildren, extended family and friends.
“Thank you, Rob, for your leadership and a lasting contribution to mental health in Australia.”
In 2007, Mr Knowles was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service.
“Rob’s legacy is one of compassion, reform and service. His work across health, aged care and mental health continues to make a difference to Victorians,” said Ms Allan.
The funeral will be open to the public and livestreamed online. A private burial will follow.
The State Funeral will take place at 10.30am on Friday 15 May at the Cathedral Church of Christ the King, 49 Lydiard Street South, Ballarat.
More information, including how to attend or view the livestream and make a donation in lieu of flowers, is available at vic.gov.au/RobertKnowles.
