During his political career, Ron Boswell served as a Parliamentary Secretary in the Howard government and held several significant roles while in opposition, including the position of Shadow Minister for Regional Development.

From 2008 to 2014, Boswell was honored with the title of Father of the Senate, reflecting his long-standing influence in Australian politics.

Reflecting on his legacy, a fellow politician remarked, “Ron was a Nationals Elder and a statesman of the highest order, a giant of our great cause, and a lifelong advocate for families, small business, and regional and rural Australia.”

He added, “Ron Boswell was truly a unique politician. His legacy has contributed to a better Australia.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also recognized Boswell’s contributions, describing him as a “great Queenslander.”

“He took principled stances about people who would seek to divide the nation. He was someone who was firmly focused on the national interest.”

Boswell began his parliamentary career in 1983 after joining the Nationals nine years before, and won re-election on six further occasions before announcing his retirement from politics at the 2013 election.

He was a critic of same-sex marriage, and supported the creation of the Liberal National Party in Queensland after the 2007 election.

Boswell married Leila Beattie, who encouraged him to enter politics, in 1966. Beattie died in 2021.