Everyone at Penington Institute is deeply saddened by the passing of The Hon Rob Knowles AO, a valued board member, colleague and friend, whose contribution to our work, and to public life more broadly, was both significant and enduring.
Rob’s connection with Penington spanned decades. He spoke at our inaugural conference in the late 1990s when he was the Victorian Minister for Health, helping to shape the conversation at a formative moment, and went on to serve on our board for more than a decade. Throughout that time, he brought insight, integrity and a genuine commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of the community, especially the most disadvantaged.
As a former Liberal Health Minister, Rob was a strong and principled advocate for evidence-based policy. He was an early supporter of a health-led response to drug use, demonstrating both foresight and courage in championing approaches that prioritised care, dignity and effectiveness.
Rob also exemplified Penington Institute’s commitment to non-partisanship. He worked constructively with colleagues from across the political spectrum, united by a shared purpose rather than divided by party. His willingness to contribute under governments of different persuasions spoke to the respect he commanded and the strength of his convictions.
A defining feature of Rob’s work was his dedication to addressing mental ill health. He understood the profound human impact of stigma and exclusion and consistently advocated for more compassionate and effective responses.
Most recently, Rob served on the Victorian Medically Supervised Injecting Room Review Panel, continuing his long-standing commitment to pragmatic, health-focused reform.
Rob will be remembered by all of us at Penington Institute for his wisdom, generosity and quiet determination to make a difference. He leaves a lasting legacy in the work we continue and, in the lives improved through his efforts.
We extend our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.