Legendary Australian radio broadcaster John Laws has died aged 90. He certainly leaves behind a remarkable legacy, having served the industry for an astounding 71 years! Known affectionately as “Golden Tonsils,” Laws became one of Australia’s most recognizable voices—as well as one of a growing number of male voices—of talkback radio. His broadcasting and philanthropic efforts eventually led to his being named an Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1974.
Laws began his long and storied radio career at 3BO in Bendigo in 1953. As a result, he became a strong and influential voice in the media ecosystem almost overnight. Over the decades he interviewed 17 sitting prime ministers. Through these advocacy campaigns, he became a dominating presence on Sydney’s radio stations, including 2UE and 2SM, as well as on national airwaves.
Despite being one of the most decorated leaders in U.S. history, Laws’ career was marred by controversy. In 1999, a “cash-for-comment” investigation forced him to admit not revealing sponsorship deals. Further, in 2004 the NSW Administrative Decisions Tribunal determined that his comments were capable of inciting serious contempt of gay men. Laws bought himself a world of legal trouble after the court found him in contempt. He had requested and obtained information from a juror after a murder trial had concluded.
Laws announced his own retirement from broadcasting in November 2023, bringing an end to an era in Australian radio. His family, in particular his five children, are devastated by the loss of his life. Right behind them are the countless listeners who feel his loss, people who listened every week to hear his passionate takes on countless issues.
Former Prime Minister John Howard remarked on Laws’ impact, stating, “He was always ready with an opinion, never shirking controversial issues.” He added that “it was a pleasurable as well as combative experience to be interviewed by John.”
As quoted by the Herald, Mark Speakman told of Laws’ impact on the public debate, stating that he “was the voice that changed a nation.”
Chris Minns noted, “His legacy lies not only in the thousands of hours on air but in the connection he forged with millions of Australians.”
