Former minister and member for Menzies Kevin Andrews dies aged 69

Former federal minister Kevin Andrews, 69, has died after a year-long battle with cancer, according to a statement released by his family.

The statement, which was posted on X by former prime minister Tony Abbott, said Mr Andrews passed away peacefully overnight, with his wife Margie by his side.

The father-of-five represented the blue ribbon seat of Menzies in Melbourne’s east for three decades, holding prominent cabinet positions in the Howard and Abbott Coalition governments.

He was a senior figure in the Liberal party’s right wing who championed conservative causes and served at various times as minister for defence, social services, immigration, ageing and workplace relations.

“We are deeply proud of his service to our country, our local community and his party, although shattered by his death after a year-long battle with cancer,” the statement said.

“Kevin was devoted to his country, his family, and his faith and lived a full life of service.

“Right up to his death, he was working on a number of projects, including his memoirs, which we will endeavour to have published posthumously.”

ABC/AAP

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