Date of Birth: January 18, 1944
Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Biography
Paul John Keating was born on January 18, 1944, in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. He is a prominent Australian politician who served as the 24th Prime Minister of Australia from 1991 to 1996. A member of the Australian Labor Party, Keating held various significant political roles throughout his career, including Treasurer of Australia from 1983 to 1991 under Prime Minister Bob Hawke. Keating is known for his sharp wit, formidable debating skills, and significant economic reforms that have had a lasting impact on the Australian economy. As Treasurer, he played a key role in modernizing Australia’s economy, including deregulating the financial sector and floating the Australian dollar. His tenure as Prime Minister was marked by efforts to advance Australia’s engagement with Asia, social justice initiatives, and the introduction of the Native Title Act following the landmark Mabo decision. After leaving politics, Keating remained a vocal commentator on Australian and global affairs, contributing to public discourse through speeches, interviews, and writings. His legacy is marked by both admiration for his economic reforms and criticism of his abrasive style.
5 Interesting Facts about Paul Keating
1. Paul Keating was the youngest ever federal minister in Australian history when he was appointed at the age of 25.
2. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum.
3. Keating is credited with initiating significant superannuation reforms, which have contributed to the financial security of millions of Australians in retirement.
4. He was known for his colorful and often biting rhetoric, famously describing the Senate as “unrepresentative swill.”
5. After politics, Keating pursued his passion for classical music, serving as the chairman of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Paul Keating
1. “The great challenge for Australia is to become integrated with Asia and to develop a real understanding of the region.”
2. “In the race of life, always back self-interest; at least you know it’s trying.”
3. “When you change the government, you change the country.”
4. “I guarantee if you walk into any pet shop in Australia, the resident galah will be talking about microeconomic policy.”
5. “We took the view that the country was not for turning back. We had to make a new future.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Paul Keating’s highest net worth is estimated to be around $5 million AUD.
Children
Paul Keating has four children with his former wife, Annita van Iersel: Caroline, Patrick, Katherine, and Alexandra.
Relevant Links
1. [Paul Keating on Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_Keating
3. [Keating’s speeches on the National Library of Australia](https://www.nla.gov.au/keating-speeches
