Former state MP passes away at 79, leaves ‘vast and lasting impact’

The Australian political landscape has lost a significant figure with the passing of a former state Labor Member of Parliament (MP) for Cabramatta and mayor of Fairfield. He died at the age of 79 after a struggle with throat cancer. 

Nickola ‘Nick’ Lalich was born in 1945 in an Egyptian refugee camp to a family fleeing the turmoil of World War II Yugoslavia. At the tender age of three, Lalich’s journey to Australia began a remarkable narrative of resilience and public service.

Settling in Bonnyrigg, Sydney’s southwest, the young Lalich embraced his new homeland’s opportunities. From humble beginnings as an apprentice electrician, he became deeply involved in his local community, joining his union and the Labor Party. 

Here, he connected with the local MP and then-Prime Minister Gough Whitlam, who would become a lifelong friend and mentor.

Lalich’s dedication to public service was evident throughout his 35-year career. His political journey began in 1987 when he was elected as a Fairfield councillor and later served as deputy mayor and mayor. 

Lalich’s own words in his maiden speech to parliament reflected a deep appreciation for his adopted country: ‘As a migrant boy born in a refugee camp in Egypt, I could never have fathomed in my wildest dreams the prospect of becoming mayor of a city and a member of Parliament.’

His commitment to the community was unwavering, and he continued to serve as mayor even after he was elected the state MP for Cabramatta in 2008. He held this position for four terms until he retired from politics at the 2023 election.

Colleagues and friends have shared their memories and condolences, painting a picture of a man who was a towering figure in stature and heart. 

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns paid tribute to Lalich, saying, ‘His was a great Australian story.’ 

‘Throughout his career, he was always conscious of the opportunities offered by life in Australia,’ Minns said.

Former Fairfield MP Guy Zangari cherished the memories of taking shared rides to Parliament House, enjoying lunches, and attending community events alongside his former colleague.

‘He was a genuine bloke, a proud family man and a son of the Labor movement,’ he said.

Zangari said he will always remember him as ‘the tall, strong and immaculately dressed man that had a heart bigger than Phar Lap.’ 

Fairfield Mayor Frank Carbone also expressed his heartfelt condolences to Lalich’s family and friends. 

Mount Druitt MP Edmond Atalla acknowledged Lalich as a cherished friend, highlighting his impact on those around him.

‘Life will feel a little emptier without Nick, but I’ll hold onto the memories we shared so generously,’ Atalla said.

Federal MP Linda Burney said his was a true Labor story, from migrant to electrician and union member, who brought a deep passion for ‘the fair go’ to high office.

‘I know his community and former parliamentary colleagues will miss him dearly.’

He is remembered as a warm and well-liked figure, with Cabramatta MP Tri Vo acknowledging his predecessor’s ‘vast and lasting impact’.

Lalich is survived by his son Paul, daughter Kerrie, grandchildren, and partner Del Bennett, a former Fairfield councillor. 

To our readers, who may have witnessed the evolution of Australian politics and community service over the decades, we invite you to share your thoughts and memories of Lalich and his contributions to our community. How do you believe his story reflects Australia’s values and opportunities? Join the conversation below.

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