AM (Patron)
Well known in Western Australia as a former State Government Minister, a Labor member of both the State Legislative Council and Federal Member of the House of Representatives in the seat of Cowan, Graham became St Bart’s inaugural Patron in 2021.
As Patron, Graham helps raise the profile and awareness of St Bart’s, and of homelessness generally, in the broader community.
Graham became a member of the Order of Australia in 2012 for his service to the community through his Parliamentary roles, as well as his advocacy for veterans and people with disabilities.
Graham saw service in Vietnam where he was wounded twice, the second time resulting in the loss of both legs. Following rehabilitation, Graham was employed by the Department of Army and Veterans Affairs. He went on to help establish the Vietnam Veterans Counselling Service and also served as a Councillor with the City of Stirling before entering State Parliament in 1983 where he served for 14 years, including seven as a Minister. In 1997, Graham was elected to the Federal Parliament and retired in 2007. In the following years, Graham has continued to serve the community in various volunteer roles, including four years as State President of the RSL.
Graham is a life member of the RSL and the Vietnam Veterans Association. He is also a Freeman of the City of Wanneroo.
St Bart’s acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land that we live and work on, the Whadjuk people of the Noongar nation. We are privileged to work with, and alongside, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and we pay our respects to Elders past, present and encourage those who are emerging as leaders.
St Bart’s is committed to diversity and inclusion in all its forms. We welcome and support the health and wellbeing of all people, regardless of background, age, ethnicity, religion and gender identity.