Jeff Kennett is one of Australia’s most prominent and influential figures, whose life has spanned politics, business, sports leadership, and mental health advocacy. Known for his outspoken nature, strategic vision, and resilience, Kennett has left an indelible mark on Victoria and the nation. His journey, however, has not been without personal challenges, including a life-threatening accident in 2020 that brought public attention to Jeff Kennett illness. From his early years in Melbourne, through his tenure as Premier of Victoria, to founding Beyond Blue and leading the Hawthorn Football Club, Kennett’s life story reflects determination, courage, and an enduring commitment to public service. This blog explores the many facets of his life, career, and legacy, shedding light on the experiences and contributions that have shaped him into a significant figure in Australian society.
Early Life and Family Background
Jeffrey Gibb Kennett was born on 2 March 1948 in Melbourne, Victoria, to Kenneth Munro Gibb Kennett and Wendy Anne Kennett. Growing up with two sisters, Judy and Shan, Kennett displayed leadership and determination from a young age. His early interests in sport, particularly football, and physical activity cultivated resilience and a competitive spirit that would define his approach to life. These formative years instilled in him discipline, teamwork, and a strong sense of responsibility.
Education and Early Career
Kennett attended Scotch College in Melbourne, where he participated actively in the Cadet Corps and school football. While his academic performance was modest, these experiences nurtured his leadership skills and ability to perform under pressure. After finishing school, he enrolled at the Australian National University in Canberra to study law but later switched to economics. After leaving university without completing his degree, he returned to Melbourne and gained experience in advertising at Myer. This early professional exposure honed his communication, negotiation, and organisational skills, which proved vital in his later political and leadership roles.
Military Service and Early Leadership
In 1968, Kennett was conscripted into the Australian Army. Selected for officer training at the Officer Training Unit in Scheyville, New South Wales, he graduated third in his class. He later served in the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, in Malaysia and Singapore. The army experience instilled discipline, resilience, and organisational expertise, shaping his approach to leadership and strategic decision-making.
Entry into Politics
Kennett entered Victorian politics in 1976, elected as the Liberal Party member for Burwood. His early career saw rapid advancement, including appointments as Minister for Housing and Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs. By 1982, he became Leader of the Opposition at just 34, gaining a reputation as a determined reformer focused on economic recovery, public service efficiency, and fiscal responsibility.
Premiership and Political Achievements
In 1992, Kennett became Premier of Victoria, inheriting a state grappling with debt, infrastructure challenges, and public sector inefficiencies. His government prioritised fiscal consolidation, infrastructure development, and urban renewal. Major projects included CityLink, improving Melbourne’s connectivity, and Docklands redevelopment, transforming the cityscape into vibrant commercial and residential areas.
Kennett implemented privatisation initiatives generating approximately $29 billion, restructured public transport, and restored Victoria’s AAA credit rating. These reforms, while effective, drew public criticism and sparked protests, with around 100,000 people marching against job losses and service cuts. Despite opposition, Kennett’s administration left a lasting imprint on Victoria’s economy and infrastructure, shaping policy and governance for decades.
Mental Health Advocacy and Beyond Blue
Following his premiership, Kennett founded Beyond Blue in 2000, inspired by a personal tragedy involving his daughter’s friends who had died by suicide. The organisation focuses on raising awareness of depression, anxiety, and suicide prevention, reducing stigma, promoting early intervention, and supporting research. Kennett’s leadership involved engaging directly with Australians in crisis, making a profound impact on national mental health awareness. Beyond Blue has become a leading institution in promoting mental health education, policy influence, and public awareness across Australia.
Jeff Kennett Illness: The 2020 Accident
In early 2020, Kennett suffered a life-threatening accident at his Richmond home. While moving rubbish from his BMW, the car began rolling backward, partially trapping him underneath. The vehicle eventually broke through metal gates and came to rest across the road. Kennett sustained severe bruising and neck injuries, losing strength in his legs and requiring surgery. He described fearing for his life during the incident, highlighting his resilience and determination.
Sport Leadership: Hawthorn Football Club
Kennett served as President of the Hawthorn Football Club from 2005 to 2011 and again from 2017 to 2022. During his first term, the club won the 2008 AFL Premiership, ending a long drought. His leadership focused on financial stability, organisational culture, community engagement, and player welfare. During his second term, historical allegations of racism emerged, prompting internal reviews and public debate. Kennett addressed these challenges while maintaining a focus on strong governance and accountability.
Controversies and Public Debate
Kennett has often sparked public debate with his outspoken opinions. In 2008, he faced criticism over remarks concerning LGBTQIA+ issues, resulting in a tribunal appearance. Over time, his views evolved alongside societal changes. He has also stressed the balance between mental health awareness and personal responsibility, sometimes drawing criticism but consistently emphasising accountability alongside support.
Business and Community Engagement
Beyond politics, Kennett held roles on corporate boards and advisory positions in business and non-profit sectors. He supported initiatives for Indigenous Australians, healthcare, and education, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to community development.
Honours and Recognition
Kennett’s contributions have been recognised with prestigious honours, including appointment as Companion of the Order of Australia for his service to politics, commerce, sport, and mental health advocacy. He has received honorary doctorates acknowledging his leadership and public service achievements.
Personal Life and Legacy
Kennett married Felicity Kellar in 1972, and the couple has four children. Despite a brief separation in 1998, they reconciled and maintained family stability. His life is marked by resilience, strategic leadership, and dedication to community service.
Jeff Kennett’s legacy spans political transformation, mental health advocacy, sports leadership, and community engagement. From transforming Victoria’s economic landscape to founding Beyond Blue and leading Hawthorn Football Club to success, his life reflects the integration of personal challenge, public service, and societal impact. His survival of a near-fatal accident and continued engagement in public initiatives highlight his enduring commitment to Australia’s social, economic, and cultural development.
Conclusion
Jeff Kennett’s life and career offer a compelling narrative of resilience, leadership, and social impact. His time as Premier transformed Victoria’s economy and infrastructure, while his founding of Beyond Blue has reshaped the national conversation around mental health, depression, and suicide prevention. Despite facing personal challenges, including the near-fatal 2020 accident, Kennett has continued to influence public life through his advocacy, sports leadership, and community engagement. His story is a testament to the power of determination, strategic vision, and compassion, illustrating how one individual can leave a lasting legacy across multiple spheres of society. Through his work and experiences, Kennett has not only shaped public policy and social initiatives but has also inspired Australians to confront challenges with courage and commitment.
FAQs
What is Jeff Kennett doing now?
Jeff Kennett is primarily focused on his role as a mental health advocate, particularly through Beyond Blue, the national organisation he helped establish. He also engages in public speaking, business advisory roles, and commentary on Australian politics and community issues. Additionally, he has been involved in leadership and governance at the Hawthorn Football Club in the AFL.
Why did Jeff Kennett lose the election?
Jeff Kennett lost the 1999 Victorian state election largely due to public backlash against his government’s extensive privatisation of public services, budget cuts, and perceived harsh treatment of public sector employees. Although economically effective, these reforms created widespread dissatisfaction, especially in rural areas, contributing to a swing against him in that election.
Why did Jeff Kennett start Beyond Blue?
Kennett co-founded Beyond Blue after his daughter’s friends died by suicide. This personal tragedy revealed the devastating effects of depression and mental illness, particularly among young people. Kennett was motivated to reduce stigma, increase public awareness, and provide support services for those struggling with mental health issues across Australia.
How many schools did Jeff Kennett close?
During his premiership, Jeff Kennett implemented significant public sector reforms, including closing or merging over 350 schools across Victoria. These closures were part of cost-cutting and efficiency measures but were controversial, particularly in rural communities where local schools were central to community life.
How much does the Premier of Victoria get paid?
As of recent records, the Premier of Victoria’s annual salary is approximately AUD 395,000. This can vary slightly due to allowances and adjustments over time.
What happened in 1999 in Australia?
In 1999, Victoria experienced a state election, which Jeff Kennett’s government lost to the Labor Party led by Steve Bracks. Nationally, 1999 was also marked by the referendum on Australia becoming a republic, which was ultimately defeated, maintaining the monarchy as Australia’s head of state.
Who was the longest-serving Premier of Victoria?
The longest-serving Premier of Victoria is Henry Bolte, who served from 1955 to 1972, holding office for 17 years.
Who is Jeff Kennett married to?
Jeff Kennett is married to Felicity Kellar. They married in 1972, briefly separated in 1998, but reconciled and have remained together since, with four children.
