Commander Graham Harris RFD RANR

9 August 1937 – 4 August 2025

The Navy League of Australia regrets to inform members and readers that its former long serving Federal President, Mr Graham Harris RFD, dearly loved and loving husband to Sandra his devoted wife of 63 years, Father to Andrew, James, and Alastair and grandfather to thirteen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, passed away after a short battle with cancer.

Born in Melbourne, Graham lived a life defined by service, compassion, and unwavering integrity. A proud alumnus of Scotch College and the University of Melbourne, was admitted on 1 March 1961, signing the Bar Roll on 6 March 1961 begin a distinguished legal career, dedicating over three decades to family law. Graham was always a consummate gentleman, including in court. Reportedly, his approach was such that witnesses would often become so relaxed during cross examination as not to see him nicely corralling them before being asked the unanswerable question. The door to his chambers was always open for those seeking advice, which advice was always well considered and on point. His work was marked by a deep commitment to supporting families and mentoring junior barristers.

Graham’s sense of civic duty led him to Federal Parliament, where he served as the Member for Chisholm from 1980 to 1983. During his tenure, he contributed to three Government Committees—Defence, Law and Government, and Health and Welfare—chairing the latter in 1982.

His devotion to Commonwealth and Country extended beyond politics and law. Graham joined the Royal Australian Naval Reserve in 1965, rising to the rank of Commander. Using his interrogation skills as a barrister, he served with distinction as Director of Naval Intelligence (Reserves), training intelligence officers and contributing to Australia’s strategic defence posture during the Cold War. In some regards, keeping Naval Intelligence alive over these lean years. He was awarded the Reserve Force Decoration (RFD) in 1985 and retired from active service in 1997.

Graham’s passion for maritime defence found enduring expression through the Navy League of Australia, which he joined in 1973. He became Victorian Division President in 1992 and Federal President in 1994, a role he held for 23 transformative years. Under his leadership, the League underwent corporate restructuring, revived dormant divisions, and strengthened its advocacy for naval capability and the maritime industry. His regular columns in THE NAVY journal reflected his strategic foresight and unwavering belief in a strong, self-reliant Navy and Australian Defence Force.

He was instrumental in preserving Osborne House, the original home of the Royal Australian Naval College, and oversaw the publication of Keeping Watch: A History of the Navy League of Australia 1895–2015. Graham’s legacy within the League is one of wisdom, resilience, and visionary leadership—a beacon for future generations.

As President, Graham was used to walking the corridors of power and providing sage maritime advice to select committees. His dedication, care, and advice was highly valued – on occasion, diplomatically resolving issues raised in THE NAVY with the “less pleased of Navy-in-Canberra.” Including on nuclear-powered submarines. On the sad death of Robert Albert in January 2023 and although retired as President, Graham’s support and practical advice was instrumental in allowing the NSW DIV to take forward THE NAVY and the NLA (into its 125th year) on a sound footing.

Beyond his professional and civic achievements, Graham was a lifelong sports enthusiast, a proud member of the Melbourne Cricket Club, and a passionate supporter of the Essendon Football Club. Yet, his greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his wife Sandra, and their three sons—Andrew, James, and Alastair—along with their families, all of whom were blessed by his love, warmth, and guidance.
Graham Harris will be deeply missed. His passing, along with Commander Robert Albert AO RFD RD RANR, Admiral Andrew Robertson AO DSC RAN, and John Jeremy AM who sadly predeceased him, represents the end of an era – the last of the Great Generation. Their inspiration and leadership have provided the NLA with the foundations with which to build upon for the next 125 years. His spirit, values and legacy of service will continue to inspire all who had the privilege to know him.

Mr Mark Schweikert
Federal President
Navy League of Australia