Gough Whitlam appeared in the National Tally Room on election night – December 10, 1977 – to concede defeat and resign the ALP leadership.
The voice of Kerry O’Brien, Whitlam’s press secretary, can be heard as Whitlam arrives to address the media.
Audio only below: ABC television commentary continues after Whitlam’s announcement, including remarks by the ALP and ACTU President Bob Hawke and former Whitlam minister Fred Daly.
Listen to Whitlam’s concession and resignation (1m):
Whitlam had been leader of the ALP since February 8, 1967. His resignation took effect on December 22, 1977, a period of 10 years, 10 months and 14 days.
Whitlam resigned as the member for Werriwa on July 31, 1978, having served 25 years, 8 months and 2 days in the House of Representatives.
Whitlam was succeeded as leader by Bill Hayden.
