James Hume-Cook

author

James Hume-Cook

1866–1942

An early figure in Australian federal politics, he helped shape the new Commonwealth in its first decade and later turned his energy toward business and trade promotion. His career moved from state politics to national office, with a lasting reputation as an organizer and public advocate.

1 Audiobook

Australian Fairy Tales

Australian Fairy Tales

by James Hume-Cook

About the author

Born in Victoria in 1866, James Hume-Cook was an Australian politician who became active in public life during the years around Federation. He served in the Victorian Legislative Assembly in the 1890s and then entered the first Australian Parliament after Federation, representing Bourke in the House of Representatives.

During his federal career, he was associated with the anti-socialist side of politics and served in Alfred Deakin's government as a minister without portfolio. He was also involved in party organization, including work as a whip, at a time when Australia's national political system was still taking shape.

After leaving Parliament, Hume-Cook remained prominent in business and public affairs. He was closely linked with trade and commercial promotion, including work connected with developing Australian markets abroad. He died in 1942, remembered mainly for his role in the formative years of Australian federal politics.