Mourners have started to gather at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Melbourne as they say their final goodbyes to former Liberal MP Kevin Andrews.
The former Liberal MP died on Saturday, December 14 at the age of 69 after a year-long fight with cancer.
His wife of 45 years, Margaret, and family were by his side when he died in the early hours of the morning.
Among the crowd at the Melbourne cathedral are former prime ministers John Howard and Tony Abbott, whom Mr Andrews served under during his tenure.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton was also present at the funeral, sitting at the front of the church with the former prime ministers.
Kevin Andrews, who was the longest-serving MP in Parliament before his retirement in 2022 has been farewelled. Picture: NCA NewsWire/ David Crosling
A State funeral was held for former Federal Defence Minister and Liberal MP Kevin Andrews at St Patrick’s Cathedral. Picture: NewsWire/Ian Currie
Other funeral attendees included Liberal Senator James Paterson, senior Liberal MPs Jess Wilson and Brad Roswell, as well as senior federal MP Michael Sukkar, senior Victorian Liberal Matthew Guy, former federal Liberal Tim Wilson and former state MP Bernie Finn.
Andrews’ family said they were “deeply proud” of his services to the Australian government during his tenure, where he represented the seat of Menzies for 31 years, working under the Howard and Abbott Liberal Governments.
Mr Andrews died after a year-long battle with cancer. Picture: NewsWire/Ian Currie
The Victorian MP is remembered for his devotion to his family and faith. Picture: NewsWire/Ian Currie
His roles spanned Defence, Ageing, Employment and Workplace Relations, Immigration and Citizenship, and Social Services.
“Kevin was devoted to his country, his family and his faith, and lived a life of service,” a statement from the family read following his death.
“Right up to his death, he was working on a number of projects, including his memoirs, which we will endeavour to have published posthumously.”