Tuesday, 8 September 2026

 Rachel WESTAWAY (Prahran) (12:59): I rise with great sadness to reflect on the passing of my dear friend, local Prahran resident and political icon Peter Katsambanis at age 60. He leaves behind his beautiful wife Karalee and five wonderful children and his mum, their yiayia. My family and I were so grateful to have known Peter for many years on many levels: as a 20-year colleague on and off in Commonwealth tribunals, through our extensive family ties with our children attending school together and through a love of the Liberal Party. My leader Jess Wilson, along with former Labor ministers, provided respectful commentary, demonstrating a bipartisan tribute to this great Greek Australian.

Peter was a fierce political fighter, an advocate for Hellenism, a wonderful husband and father and – his only vice – a one-eyed Collingwood supporter. He was and always will be quintessentially Prahran. Schooled at Windsor Primary, Prahran High, then Melbourne High, he had a sharp intellect and a degree in commerce and law from Melbourne Uni. He was one of only two people ever elected to two Australian state parliaments.

He became my inaugural chief of staff, setting both me and my office up before tackling his health issues. He was my friend, my confidant, who encouraged me to run for Prahran. He and his family helped me win the seat at the 2025 by-election. I am grateful to Karalee and his children for affording me the chance on his last day to say, ‘Thank you. I love you, and I am so grateful for everything.’ He said back to me, ‘I love you. Just win.’ Prahran was part of his world.