Troy Bramston discusses his biography of Gough Whitlam, a definitive work that provides an unvarnished analysis of Whitlam’s achievements and failures. This lecture will focus on the process of writing the book, undertaking research and his approach to unlocking the secrets of a public life. 

Troy undertook much of his research at the Library, drawing on thousands of pages of newly discovered archives, and interviews with more than 100 people. He will discuss how new discoveries informed the first biography of Whitlam since his death in 2014.

There will be plenty of time for discussion, so bring your questions about research, the craft of biography or Whitlam himself. 

Following the presentation, Troy will be signing books in the foyer.

About Troy Bramston

Troy Bramston is a senior writer with The Australian newspaper, reporting on politics, policy and popular culture. He is an award-winning and best-selling author or editor of twelve books, including Gough Whitlam: The Vista of the New (2025), Bob Hawke: Demons and Destiny (2022), Robert Menzies: The Art of Politics (2019) and Paul Keating: The Big-Picture Leader (2016). 

He was co-winner of an Australian Book Industry Award (2016), finalist for the Walkley Book Award (2017), shortlisted for the National Biography Award (2018) and shortlisted for the Australian Political Book of the Year Award (2022). Troy is a member of the Library Council of the State Library of NSW and the National Archives of Australia Advisory Council.