John Coates (born 23 March 1944) is an Australian retired politician. He was born in Melbourne, Victoria, and attended the University of Sydney, after which he worked as a biochemist at the University of Tasmania.
Political career
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House of Representatives (1972–1975)
Coates entered federal politics as a member of the Australian Labor Party (ALP). At the 1972 federal election he was elected to the Australian House of Representatives for the Division of Denison, Tasmania, defeating incumbent Liberal MP Robert Solomon. He served until the 1975 election, when he was defeated by Liberal candidate Michael Hodgman. -
Senate (1981–1996)
After a brief interval from parliament, Coates returned to federal politics in 1980, winning a seat in the Australian Senate representing Tasmania. He took office on 1 July 1981 and was re‑elected in subsequent elections. He served as a Senator until his resignation on 20 August 1996, six months after the 1996 federal election that ended Labor’s term in government. His resignation coincided with the departure of fellow ALP Senator Mal Colston and was noted for a brief exchange in the Senate chamber.
Party affiliation
Throughout his parliamentary career Coates was a member of the Australian Labor Party.
Professional background
Before entering politics, Coates pursued a career in biochemistry, holding a position at the University of Tasmania.
Personal details
- Born: 23 March 1944, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Education: University of Sydney (undergraduate)
- Occupation: Biochemist (prior to political career)
Coates is regarded as a veteran figure within the ALP, having served both in the lower and upper houses of the Australian Parliament during a period spanning more than two decades.
