Remembering The Hon Edward 'Ted' Pickering AM (1939–2025)

By Ted's daughter, Deborah Hewes

The Hon Edward “Ted” Pickering AM, former NSW Cabinet Minister and long-serving Member of the Legislative Council, passed away on 2 December 2025 at the age of 86. His life was marked by public service, intellectual discipline and a strong belief in accountability and fairness. 

Born in Newcastle on 1 November 1939, Ted was the eldest of three children and grew up in a close-knit family with strong community and church roots. After excelling at Newcastle Boys High School, he pursued a part-time degree in Chemical Engineering with the University of New South Wales. He completed the seven-year course while working full-time at BHP Steelworks. In 1964 he moved to the Illawarra working in the Coal Preparation industry and this was the foundation for a respected career in the industry. 

Ted went on to hold senior roles in the Illawarra, managing major coal preparation and coke production plants and later establishing his own consultancy, Coal Tec Pty Ltd. His technical expertise and practical leadership helped shape the region’s industrial capacity during a period of significant growth and change. His years in the Illawarra strengthened his connection to the community and influenced the grounded, pragmatic approach he later brought to politics. 

Elected to the NSW Legislative Council in 1976, Ted’s parliamentary career spanned nearly two decades. He served as Leader of the Opposition in the Council, then as Leader of the Government and Minister for Police and Emergency Services, later taking on the portfolios of Justice, Energy and Local Government. He was a central figure in reforms that modernised policing and justice in NSW, holding firm to the belief that public institutions must serve the community rather than the powerful. He championed accountability and strong oversight, and he believed in doing what was right even when it was difficult. When Ted gave his word, he stood by it. 

A notable moment in his parliamentary life was his decision to cross the floor to support anti-vilification legislation — an act of principle that demonstrated the independence and integrity for which he became widely respected. His work also contributed to the establishment of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) and later informed the Wood Royal Commission into police misconduct, shaping integrity standards that endure today. 

After retiring from politics in 1995, Ted travelled widely and on returning to NSW purchased an olive grove in Mt Hunter, which became a focal point for family gatherings. It was a chapter that brought him great happiness and connected multiple generations of the Pickering family. 

Ted was married to his first wife, Elaine, for 56 years until her passing in 2015. In 2017 he married Carol Van Der Water, whose companionship brought him comfort and joy in his later years. He is survived by Carol, his five children, 14 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Finally, Ted moved back to his beloved Stanwell Park and resided in the Hillcrest Retirement Village. 

Remembered for his intellect, integrity and commitment to public service, Ted Pickering leaves behind a legacy that has shaped NSW governance and touched the lives of many within the Illawarra and beyond. 

Notice of Celebration of Life

The Hon Edward 'Ted' Pickering AM
1 November 1939 – 2 December 2025
Aged 86 years
Late of Stanwell Park, formerly of Newcastle

Loving husband of Carol and Elaine (deceased) and much-loved father and father-in-law of Deborah and Donald, Paul and Tina, Malcolm and Debbie, Sandra, Bronwyn and Steve. Beloved Papa of 14 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

Ted will be remembered for his deep integrity, tireless public service, sharp intellect, and unwavering dedication to justice and family.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life on Monday, 15 December 2025, commencing at 1pm at Audley Dance Hall, Royal National Park, NSW 2232.