Vale John Laws
Media release from the Premier of NSW Chris Minns
Sunday, 9 November 2025
It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of John Laws, a towering figure in Australian radio whose voice resonated across the nation for more than seven decades.
John’s career was extraordinary. Few broadcasters have left such a deep and lasting mark on Australian media.
Beginning in 1953 at Bendigo’s 3BO and later becoming a household name on Sydney stations such as 2UE and 2SM, his distinctive tone earned him the affectionate title ‘Golden Tonsils’.
On behalf of the NSW Government, I extend my deepest condolences to John’s family, friends, colleagues, and all who listened, learned and were challenged by him.
His legacy lies not only in the thousands of hours on air, but in the connection he forged with millions of Australians.
Vale John Laws.
CHRIS MINNS PREMIER OF NSW
