Thomas Collins (Australian politician)
Thomas Joseph Collins | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Yass, New South Wales, Australia |
| Died | April 15, 1945 (aged 61) |
| Occupation(s) | Businessman, politician |
| Years active | 1911–1943 |
| Known for | Member of the Australian House of Representatives (1931–1943), Postmaster-General of Australia (1941) |
Thomas Joseph Collins (6 April 1884 – 15 April 1945) was an Australian businessman and politician. Representing the Country Party, he served as a member of the House of Representatives from 1931 until 1943, and briefly held the position of Postmaster-General of Australia in 1941.
Early life
Collins was born in Yass to John Collins, a storekeeper, and Mary Hartigan. He attended a Catholic school in his hometown before enlisting in 1902 with the 5th Battalion of the Australian Commonwealth Horse to participate in the Boer War, although the conflict ended prior to his deployment.
In 1906, he relocated to Young, where he established his own enterprise in 1911. He married Ruby Violet Summerhayes in 1914 and grew his company, Collins, Ellerman & Co., into one of the largest stock and property agencies within New South Wales.
Politics
Collins began his political career early, contesting the federal seat of Newcastle in 1913 and associating with Charles Hardy of the Riverina Movement. At the 1931 Australian federal election, he secured the federal seat of Hume representing the Country Party. Although known for his engaging manner, he was not a leading figure in parliament, focusing mainly on rural matters.
Following Prime Minister Joseph Lyons’ passing in 1939, Collins initially backed Country Party leader Sir Earle Page’s resistance to Robert Menzies assuming the Prime Ministership. However, after Page’s parliamentary criticism of Menzies caused internal party resignations, Collins withdrew his support from Page and declined participation in meetings under Page’s leadership.
When Menzies established government in April 1941 and Page stepped down as leader, Collins—who was excluded from the leadership ballot won by Page ally Archie Cameron—was appointed as Minister Assisting the Prime Minister (external territories) and Minister Assisting the Minister for the Interior. He was named Postmaster-General in June 1941 but served only until October when a Labor government took office. Collins lost his parliamentary seat at the 1943 election.
Later life
Known for his charitable contributions, professional knowledge, and dedication to various sports, Collins contemplated a return to politics but passed away suddenly on 15 April 1945 due to coronary sclerosis. He was survived by his wife and daughter, Mary Isabella Collins, who died on 22 October 1988.