Mark Latham

Mark William Latham (born February 28, 1961) is a former Australian politician who served as leader of the federal parliamentary Australian Labor Party and Leader of the Opposition from December 2003 to January 2005. Latham captured national attention and high levels of public approval with his innovative policies and unconventional approach, but also attracted controversy surrounding his colourful past. In the October 2004 federal election, Latham was defeated by the incumbent Prime Minister John Howard. Ill health and deteriorating relations with his own party forced him to step down as Leader on 18 January, 2005. In September, Latham released a set of diaries in which he attacked many of his former colleagues and members of the media, as well as condemning the general state of political life in Australia.

References

• Abraham, Matt (July 9, 2004). Howard's toughest interview of the year. Crikey.com.au
• Allard, Tom; & Metherell, Mark (October 11, 2004). Late release of policy cost Latham the Lodge. The Sydney Morning Herald.
• A fair dinkum Labor hero (December 4, 2003). The Economist.
• Ill health ends Latham's career. NEWS.com.au.
• Latham quits (January 18, 2005). ABC News Online.