Kerry Walter Sibraa AO (born 12 October 1937) is an Australian public figure known for a long parliamentary career and later diplomatic service. He represented New South Wales as a member of the Australian federal parliament and sat with the Labor Party. His tenure in the Senate and his term as President of the Senate made him a prominent participant in Australia’s federal legislative process.

Early life and entry into politics

Sibraa was born in Sydney, New South Wales, and entered federal politics in the mid-1970s. He was first appointed to the Senate in December 1975, beginning a career in national politics that would span almost two decades. His early years in public life coincided with a period of significant political change in Australia, and he became associated with Labor’s parliamentary team for New South Wales.

Parliamentary service and leadership

Sibraa served as a Senator for New South Wales from December 1975 until June 1978 and after a brief interruption returned in August 1978, serving continuously until February 1994. During that time he was elected by his colleagues to the office of President of the Senate, holding the chair from 1987 to 1994. The President’s role combines procedural oversight of Senate sittings, safeguarding members’ rights, and representing the chamber in official capacities. As a senator he also participated in committee work and debates central to federal governance.

Diplomatic appointment and later career

After leaving Parliament in 1994, Sibraa entered diplomatic service as Australian High Commissioner to Zimbabwe, a post he held until 1998. High Commissioners act as the senior diplomatic representatives between Commonwealth countries; responsibilities typically include political reporting, consular services and fostering bilateral relations.

Throughout his public career Sibraa was associated with matters affecting New South Wales and national legislative processes. He is officially styled with the post-nominal AO (Officer of the Order of Australia) in recognition of service to the nation.

Private life: Sibraa married Yvonne Margaret Melvin in 1957; the marriage produced two children and ended in 1992. In 1993 he married Julie Louise Hatcher. For further reference on facets of his parliamentary and diplomatic work see the entries on the role of a Senator, the political context of New South Wales, and resources about the Australian Labor movement.

  • Senate service: 1975–1978, 1978–1994.
  • President of the Senate: 1987–1994.
  • Diplomatic role: High Commissioner to Zimbabwe, 1994–1998.