Overview

Reginald Greive "Reg" Withers (26 October 1924 – 15 November 2014) was an Australian politician best known for his lengthy service in the federal parliament and later role in local government. A member of the Liberal Party, he represented his state in the Australian Senate for many years and became a familiar figure in national political debates. He also served as Lord Mayor of Perth from 1991 to 1994.

Political career and style

Withers was regarded as a skilled parliamentary operator and a committed party figure. During his years in the Senate he took part in debates on government accountability, administration and parliamentary procedure. He attracted attention for his forceful opposition to the Labor prime minister Gough Whitlam and for his role in the heated political contests of the 1970s. Colleagues and commentators described him as combative and disciplined, often using procedural knowledge to pursue party objectives.

Roles and responsibilities

  • Long-serving senator representing Western Australia in the federal parliament.
  • Senior party figure active in Senate tactics and oversight of government administration.
  • Lord Mayor of Perth (1991–1994), overseeing aspects of city governance and civic representation.

Local government and later life

After his federal career, Withers returned to public life in Perth, taking up municipal leadership and lending his experience to local issues. His tenure as Lord Mayor involved ceremonial duties, civic advocacy and participation in metropolitan planning discussions. He remained a public commentator after leaving elected office and died in Perth in November 2014 at the age of 90.

Legacy and significance

Withers is remembered for the longevity of his public service and his influence within the Liberal Party and the Senate. He exemplified a generation of politicians who moved between federal and local roles, and who were central to the adversarial style of Australian parliamentary politics in the late 20th century. His career is often cited in discussions of Senate procedure, party discipline and the interplay between national and municipal leadership.

Further reading: contemporary biographies and parliamentary records provide detailed accounts of his parliamentary speeches and civic initiatives for those seeking in-depth information.