Fraser, (John) Malcolm (1930– )

Australian Liberal politician, prime minister 1975–83; nicknamed ‘the Prefect’ because of a supposed disregard of subordinates.

Born in Melbourne, the grandson of an influential politician and businessman, Fraser was educated at Oxford University, and later became a millionaire sheep farmer, following his father's occupation. He entered the federal parliament in 1955 and began his ministerial career in 1966, holding the defence portfolio 1969–71 during the Vietnam War. His resignation from the Cabinet in 1971 was followed by Gorton's removal as prime minister after a no-confidence vote. In March 1975 he replaced Snedden as Liberal Party leader. In November, following the Whitlam government's economic difficulties, he blocked finance bills in the Senate, became prime minister of a caretaker government, and in the consequent general election won a large majority. He lost to Hawke in the 1983 election. The period 1975–87 has been viewed as full of missed opportunities and lacking a clear direction, but Fraser took a firm stance against South African apartheid.