George Leake (3 December 1856 – 24 June 1902) was an Australian lawyer and politician who served as Premier of Western Australia in two short terms during 1901–1902. His leadership came at a fragile moment just after the Federation of Australia, when the colony's political alignments were unsettled and new parties were emerging.

Background and career

Leake came from a well-known Western Australian family and trained for the law, establishing a legal career before entering public life. He became prominent in colonial politics and was regarded as a moderate figure able to attract support from different groups. His reputation for legal competence and steadiness helped him become a central figure in the parliamentary disputes that followed the departure of older leaders to federal politics.

Premierships and political context

In 1901, after the colony's longtime leader left for federal service, Leake formed a ministry and first became Premier on 27 May 1901. That ministry lasted until 21 November 1901. Political manoeuvring then produced a change of government, but Leake returned to office on 23 December 1901 and remained Premier until his death on 24 June 1902. Both administrations were minority governments that relied on the support of the newly organised labour movement and other allies in the colonial parliament.

Key dates

  • Born: 3 December 1856
  • First term as Premier: 27 May 1901 – 21 November 1901
  • Second term as Premier: 23 December 1901 – 24 June 1902
  • Died in office: 24 June 1902 (aged 45)

Significance and legacy

Leake's time as Premier was brief but important because it took place during the transition from colonial government toward participation in the new Commonwealth of Australia. His ministries managed routine administration while political parties and allegiances were still forming. His reliance on labour support foreshadowed the changing party landscape in Australian state politics. Leake's sudden death in office contributed to continuing instability until clearer party lines developed.

For an overview of the state he led, see Western Australia. Leake is remembered as a conciliatory political figure whose legal background shaped his approach to governance during a pivotal period in the state's political development.