Graham Richardson, a notable figure who played key roles as a former Labor senator, a party influencer, and a media analyst, has passed away at the age of 76.

His wife confirmed to Ben Fordham on 2GB that the former senator succumbed to complications from influenza and pneumonia at 3:50 AM.

“Darcy and Amanda have asked me to inform everyone that, unfortunately, Richo departed in the early hours of today,” Fordham announced.

He further explained, “In recent weeks, he battled a case of influenza which progressed to pneumonia, and underwent dialysis to help purify his blood.”

Fordham noted that Richardson lived to witness an important moment in his son’s life.

“During his serious health struggle, he promised his wife Amanda, ‘I will live to see Darcy complete his exams and his HSC.’ Darcy finished his final HSC exam, which was French, last Thursday. Richo passed away this morning,” Fordham shared.

Richardson served as New South Wales senator in federal parliament between 1983 and 1994.

When he first arrived in parliament, he was the youngest elected senator at the time, at the age of just 33.

He served as a cabinet minister under prime ministers Bob Hawke and Paul Keating for a range of positions, including social security, transport and communications, health and the environment.