It is with great sadness that I acknowledge the passing of Senator John McCain.

There have been few greater friends of Australia than Senator McCain. He was a
passionate supporter of the Australia-United States Alliance, and a champion of our
bilateral defence relationship as Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

His unstinting commitment to the cause of liberty, at home and abroad, is a true testament
of his character and his country.

I extend my sincere condolences to his family and friends and the many others who will
mourn his passing.