Matt Price

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Matt Price (October 15, 1961 – November 25, 2007) was an Australian journalist and newspaper columnist. He covered federal politics as a member of the Canberra Press Gallery for The Australian newspaper, writing a regular column entitled The Sketch, that often took a humorous view of parliamentary proceedings. He also occasionally wrote about sport. He was a regular guest on the Insiders program. He formerly worked in television, including stints at Channel Nine and Sky News. Previously, he worked for the Albany Advertiser and Perth's Daily News.

In early October 2007, Matt was diagnosed with multiple brain tumours.^[1] He posted this note to his colleagues at The Australian newspaper:

A couple of weeks back I returned from Canberra with low energy levels. Then last week - and this is perverse - I noticed my left side slightly awry writing a story on Chris Mainwaring. A trip to the GP and a CT scan proved devastating. I have several brain tumours and will undergo exploratory brain surgery on Wednesday.

There is no sugar coating this - it's dangerous and serious. Telling the three kids has been horrific. I am distraught at the prospect of introducing cancer into their innocent teenage lives. We are entering a long dark tunnel with no guarantees.

Still, if hope, prayers, friends and thoughts count for anything, I'm off to a good start. Speaking to Wayne Goss - twice survivor of this in similar circumstances - has been inspiring. We are also lucky to have watched close up how Michael and Cynthia rebuilt their lives this year. While I can only pray for a fraction of C's bravery, my Susie is every bit as saintly, strong and inspirational as Harvs.

The Oz and News Ltd have been tremendous. Wired - and when inspired - I'll file the odd campaign observation. As you'd expect, after a few days in hospital I'm a world expert.

No pithy punchline, just the obvious observation - life is fragile, hug your loved ones. Cheers, Matt

Price died on November 25, 2007^[2]. Prime Minister-elect Kevin Rudd said of his passing that "I am shocked and deeply saddened by the news of Matt Price's death. He had emerged in recent years as one of the greats of the new generation of Australian journalists."^[3]^[4]

He was married to Sue and had three children.