Senator the Hon. George Brandis S.C.

Minister for the Arts and Sport

Elizabeth Jolley leaves behind a legacy of literature that is abundant with warmth and humour, the Minister for the Arts and sport, Senator George Brandis, said today.

‘Over a long and distinguished career, Elizabeth Jolley published works that perceptively explored the themes of joy and grief, woven throughout with sympathy and wit,' Senator Brandis said.

‘Her writing broke new ground in Australian fiction—depicting women and outsiders as protagonists.

‘The nation returned her warmth and showed its respect. Her services to literature saw her appointed as Officer of the Order of Australia and awarded honorary doctorates from four universities. In 1997 Elizabeth Jolley was declared a National Living Treasure.

‘Her contribution to Australia's literary culture is significant—both as a writer and as a teacher at Fremantle Arts Centre and Curtin University.

‘Many other leading Australian authors have commented on the gentle but lasting influence she exerted on both their work and their lives.

‘Elizabeth Jolley is survived not just by her children—Richard, Ruth and Sarah—but by her enduring legacy that generations of Australian readers will treasure.

‘She will be missed.'

Media contact: Travis Bell 0448 950 248

13/07
Tuesday, 20 February 2007