John Gorton in 1968: The Maverick Prime Minister Who Steered Australia Through Change

In 1968, Australia saw a shift in its political landscape with the rise of John Gorton, a man known for his unconventional style and decisive leadership. Gorton’s ascent to the Prime Ministership marked a year of significant transformation for the nation, characterized by bold policies, a focus on national identity, and pivotal changes in domestic and foreign affairs. This blog delves into the key events, achievements, and initiatives of John Gorton during the transformative year of 1968.

The Rise of John Gorton

John Gorton became the 19th Prime Minister of Australia on January 10, 1968, following the sudden disappearance and presumed drowning of Prime Minister Harold Holt in December 1967. Gorton was a Senator and a former fighter pilot in World War II, known for his rugged independence and maverick approach to politics. His election as the leader of the Liberal Party marked a departure from the more cautious and conservative leadership of his predecessors.

Gorton's rise to power came at a time of significant social and political change in Australia. The 1960s were marked by growing demands for civil rights, gender equality, and economic modernization. Australia was also grappling with its role in the Vietnam War and its relationship with its neighbors in the Asia-Pacific region.

Domestic Policy and Economic Initiatives

One of Gorton's key priorities in 1968 was to address domestic economic issues and promote national development. His government focused on boosting the Australian economy through infrastructure development and support for key industries. Gorton emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on foreign imports.

In 1968, Gorton’s administration undertook significant initiatives to improve Australia's transportation infrastructure. Investments were made in road and rail networks to facilitate the movement of goods and people across the vast continent. These infrastructure projects were aimed at stimulating economic growth and regional development.

Gorton also sought to promote the mining and manufacturing sectors, recognizing their potential to drive economic prosperity. Policies were introduced to encourage investment in these industries, and efforts were made to streamline regulations and reduce bureaucratic hurdles for businesses.

Education and Social Welfare

Gorton’s government placed a strong emphasis on education and social welfare, reflecting his belief in the importance of investing in the future of the nation. In 1968, significant efforts were made to improve the quality and accessibility of education in Australia. Gorton's administration increased funding for schools and universities, aiming to provide better facilities and resources for students and educators.

One of the notable achievements in the field of education was the establishment of the Australian National University in Canberra as a premier institution for higher learning and research. This initiative was part of Gorton's broader vision to enhance Australia's intellectual and scientific capabilities.

In the realm of social welfare, Gorton's government introduced measures to support vulnerable populations, including the elderly and low-income families. Efforts were made to expand social security programs and provide financial assistance to those in need. These initiatives were aimed at promoting social equity and ensuring that all Australians had access to basic necessities and opportunities for advancement.

National Identity and Cultural Policy

John Gorton was a staunch advocate for fostering a strong national identity and promoting Australian culture. In 1968, his government launched initiatives to celebrate and preserve Australia's cultural heritage. Efforts were made to support the arts, literature, and historical preservation, reflecting Gorton's belief in the importance of cultural expression and national pride.

Gorton’s administration also emphasized the significance of Australia's natural environment and the need to protect it for future generations. Environmental conservation efforts were initiated, and policies were introduced to safeguard natural resources and promote sustainable development. Gorton’s focus on environmental issues was ahead of its time, highlighting his progressive approach to governance.

Foreign Policy and Vietnam War

The Vietnam War was a defining issue for Australia in the late 1960s, and Gorton's leadership in 1968 was marked by his handling of the country's involvement in the conflict. Gorton inherited Australia's commitment to the war from his predecessor, and he faced the challenge of balancing public opinion with the nation's strategic interests.

Gorton supported Australia's continued involvement in the Vietnam War, aligning with the United States and other Western allies. He believed that Australia's participation was crucial for maintaining regional security and countering the spread of communism. However, Gorton's stance on the war was met with growing opposition at home, as anti-war sentiment increased and protests became more frequent.

In addition to his stance on the Vietnam War, Gorton sought to strengthen Australia's diplomatic relations with its neighbors in the Asia-Pacific region. His government worked to build stronger ties with countries such as Japan, Indonesia, and Malaysia, recognizing the importance of regional cooperation and stability.

Leadership Style and Political Challenges

John Gorton's leadership style was marked by his independence, directness, and willingness to challenge established norms. He was known for his informal approach and his ability to connect with ordinary Australians. Gorton’s maverick personality and straightforward communication style endeared him to many, but also created tensions within his own party.

Gorton faced significant political challenges during his tenure as Prime Minister. His unconventional style and policy decisions sometimes led to conflicts with senior members of the Liberal Party and the broader political establishment. Despite these challenges, Gorton remained committed to his vision for Australia and continued to pursue his policy agenda with determination.

Legacy and Impact

John Gorton's tenure as Prime Minister in 1968 left a lasting impact on Australia. His focus on national development, education, social welfare, and cultural identity contributed to significant progress in these areas. Gorton's efforts to modernize Australia's infrastructure and promote key industries helped lay the groundwork for the country's future economic growth.

Gorton's commitment to fostering a strong national identity and promoting Australian culture resonated with many Australians, inspiring a sense of pride and unity. His progressive approach to environmental conservation and education highlighted his forward-thinking leadership.

However, Gorton's support for Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War remained a contentious aspect of his legacy. While he believed in the strategic importance of the war, the growing anti-war sentiment and public opposition posed significant challenges for his government.

Conclusion

In 1968, John Gorton emerged as a transformative leader who steered Australia through a period of significant change. His bold policies, commitment to national development, and focus on cultural identity defined his tenure as Prime Minister. Gorton's leadership style, characterized by independence and directness, set him apart as a maverick leader who was willing to challenge the status quo.

As we reflect on John Gorton's contributions in 1968, it is clear that his impact on Australia was profound and multifaceted. His legacy as a visionary leader who championed national pride, economic growth, and social progress continues to resonate in the nation's history. Gorton's year in power marked a pivotal chapter in Australia's journey, shaping the course of its development and leaving an indelible mark on its identity.

Hugh Jackman born October 1968

Hugh Jackman was born 12 October 1968 in Sydney, New South Wales, the son of Grace McNeil (née Greenwood) and Christopher John Jackman, a Cambridge-trained accountant. His parents were English-born, and had come to Australia, in 1967, as part of the "Ten Pound Poms" immigration. One of Jackman's paternal great-grandfathers was Greek. His parents were devout Christians, having been converted by Evangelist Billy Graham after their marriage. Jackman has four older siblings, and was the second of his parents' children to be born in Australia. He also has a younger half-sister, from his mother's re-marriage. His parents divorced when he was eight, and Jackman remained in Australia with his father and Jackman's two brothers, while his mother moved back to England with Jackman's two sisters. 

 As a child, Jackman liked the outdoors, spending a lot of time at the beach and on camping trips and vacations all over Australia. He wanted to see the world: "I used to spend nights looking at atlases. I decided I wanted to be a chef on a plane. Because I'd been on a plane and there was food on board, I presumed there was a chef. I thought that would be an ideal job."

Jackman went to primary school at Pymble Public School and later attended the all-boys Knox Grammar School on Sydney's Upper North Shore, where he starred in its production of My Fair Lady in 1985, and became the captain of the school in 1986. Following graduation, he spent a gap year working at Uppingham School in England. On his return, he studied at the University of Technology, Sydney, graduating in 1991 with a BA in Communications. In his final year of university, he took a drama course to make up additional credits. The class did Václav Havel's The Memorandum with Jackman as the lead. He later commented, "In that week I felt more at home with those people than I did in the entire three years [at university]".

After obtaining his BA, Jackman completed the one-year course "The Journey" at the Actors' Centre in Sydney. About studying acting full-time, he stated, "It wasn't until I was 22 that I ever thought about my hobby being something I could make a living out of. As a boy, I'd always had an interest in theater. But the idea at my school was that drama and music were to round out the man. It wasn't what one did for a living. I got over that. I found the courage to stand up and say, 'I want to do it'." After completing "The Journey", he was offered a role on the popular soap opera Neighbours but turned it down to attend the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts of Edith Cowan University in Perth, Western Australia, from which he graduated in 1994.

Jackman has said he "always loved acting but when I started at drama school I was like the dunce of the class. It just wasn’t coming right to me. Everyone was cooler, everyone seemed more likely to succeed, everyone seemed more natural at it and in retrospect I think that is good. I think it is good to come from behind as an actor. I think it is good to go into an audition thinking 'Man I’ve got to be at my best to get this gig.'"

1968 Prime Minister of Australia

On 10 January 1968, Sir John Grey Gorton, (September 1911 – 19 May 2002), Australian politician, became the 19th Prime Minister in unusual circumstances. He was elected Liberal Party leader to replace Harold Holt, who had disappeared the previous month while swimming off the Victorian coast, and was presumed dead. Gorton also left the job in unusual circumstances – he declared himself out of office after a tied party vote of confidence in his leadership on 10 March 1971.

Prime Minister John Gorton with Indonesian President Soeharto in Djakarta during the Gorton’s visit in 1968.