Function and purpose

Series M3843 consists of correspondence between the Hon Robert “Bob” James Lee Hawke and his electorate throughout his time in Federal Parliament. Bob Hawke won the seat of Wills in October 1980. The then Leader of the Opposition, Bill Hayden, appointed Mr Hawke as Shadow Minister for Industrial Relations, Employment and Youth Affairs. On 8 February 1983, Hawke successfully challenged Mr Hayden for the leadership of the Australian Labor Party. A federal election was called for 5 March 1983. After less than a month in the role, Bob Hawke became Australia’s 23rd Prime Minister. He held the role for a record four terms until losing the party leadership to Paul Keating in 1991.

The series consists of files holding: representations from Mr Hawke's constituents; associated correspondence with Federal and State government ministers and departments; and, replies signed by Mr Hawke or his electoral secretary. The records cover a wide variety of subjects, including correspondence with or about: community organisations and social clubs; regional councils; immigration, citizenship and ethnic affairs; education (school and tertiary); federal government grants; local media; sporting organisations; and, youth homelessness and youth affairs.

Custodial history

On 26 March 1998, 24 boxes relating to constituents’ correspondence were transferred to the Sydney office of the National Archives of Australia. Amongst these were four boxes relating to constituents’ correspondence on Immigration matters.

Sources