Petro Georgiou’s life was one marked by exceptional achievements, deep integrity, and a fierce commitment to justice. Born in Corfu, Greece, and immigrating to Australia with his family in 1951, Petro’s journey to becoming a respected public figure began at Melbourne High School, where he laid the foundation for a lifetime of service to the community.
From 1962 to 1965, Petro thrived as a student at Melbourne High School, where he demonstrated leadership, academic excellence, and athletic prowess. He played Half-Back in the School’s Under 15 XVIII and served as Vice-Captain the following year. He also excelled in track and field, competing in the 100 and 220 yards for Forrest House. Despite his athletic achievements, Petro’s true passion lay in his academics, where he was honored with a Commonwealth Scholarship and the prestigious Senior Scholarship, awarded to the top 50 students in Victoria. He was also a dynamic leader, serving as Form Captain, SRC Representative, and a member of the Magazine Committee during his final year. Known for his vibrant personality, he earned the affectionate nickname “Greek Volcano,” reflecting his boundless energy and quick wit.
Petro’s younger brother, Matthew, followed him to Melbourne High School in 1968, where he too excelled in athletics and went on to become a solicitor before tragically passing away in 1992. Petro’s pride in his brother’s accomplishments was clear, and the bond they shared was deep.
After leaving Melbourne High, Petro went on to build a remarkable career in public service. His dedication to multiculturalism, civil liberties, and the rights of refugees made him a standout figure in Australian politics. Elected as the Member of Parliament for Kooyong in 1994, Petro spent 16 years serving his community, including four terms under the Howard government. Despite remaining on the backbench, he was an outspoken advocate for the values he believed in, particularly on issues of immigration, asylum seekers, and human rights. He introduced a private member’s bill in 2005 to release children and long-term asylum seekers from detention, and in 2006, he crossed the floor to vote against asylum seeker legislation—actions that demonstrated his steadfast commitment to justice, even in the face of political opposition.
Petro’s advocacy extended beyond his parliamentary work. He was deeply concerned with the erosion of multiculturalism and civil liberties in Australia, expressing his worries in his emotional valedictory speech. His commitment to these causes earned him the respect of people across the political spectrum and the admiration of those who worked with him.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Petro was made an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2013 for his service to parliament and his advocacy for human rights and multiculturalism. His legacy is a testament to the power of standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult.
On Behalf of Melbourne High School
Petro’s connection to Melbourne High School remained strong throughout his life. The school played a formative role in shaping the values that guided him throughout his career. As a student, he was not only a top scholar and athlete but also a leader who demonstrated the qualities of integrity, responsibility, and service. His time at Melbourne High School helped shape his lifelong commitment to education and public service.
In 1995, Petro returned to the school as the guest speaker at the Melbourne High School Old Boys’ Annual Dinner, and again in 2013 when he addressed the school at the Speech Night. These moments reflected the deep bond he felt with his alma mater and its community.
On behalf of Melbourne High School, we remember Petro Georgiou with great pride. His life serves as a testament to the power of education, community, and the ability to make a lasting difference. Petro’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of students, urging them to embrace the values of integrity, compassion, and justice that he held dear. Petro is survived by his loving partner, two children, and a large extended family. His death leaves a profound void, but his legacy of advocacy, compassion, and integrity will continue to resonate, inspiring all who follow in his footsteps.
