Charles McDonald was one of the early leaders of Australia’s labour movement and played a central role in the establishment of the Australian Labor Party. Despite his initial opposition to Federation, McDonald was elected to the first federal parliament in 1901, representing the seat of Kennedy in Queensland, which he held until his death.
As Speaker of the House of Representatives, McDonald was respected for his deep study of parliamentary practice and his reputation for fairness. A staunch republican, he rejected the traditional Speaker’s wig and gown and had the ceremonial mace removed from the table of the House – a gesture symbolic of his egalitarian values. He served twice as Speaker, from 1910–1913 and again from 1914–1917, presiding through a turbulent period that included the conscription debates of the First World War.
Josephine Muntz Adams painted this commanding portrait of McDonald in 1916, capturing him with characteristic poise and dignity. Standing beside a table with parliamentary papers, he is depicted as both thoughtful and resolute, reflecting his integrity and devotion to public service.
Image courtesy of the Historic Memorials Collection, Parliament House Art Collection, Department of Parliamentary Services, Canberra, ACT.
