Ward, Joseph George (1856–1930)

Australian-born New Zealand Liberal politician, prime minister of New Zealand 1906–12 and 1928–30. In his various posts, he was noted for introducing welfare reforms, for example the provision of pensions for widows and the formation of the world's first ministry of public health.

Ward was born in Melbourne, Australia. In New Zealand, he entered politics in 1887, and attained the position of postmaster-general and colonial secretary, 1891–1906, and represented New Zealand at the imperial conferences in London in 1907, 1909, and 1911. He was knighted in 1901.