December 19, 2025
The Society was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Fellow, Dr Keith Douglas Suter AM FRSN, on 10 December 2025 after a long illness.
Dr Suter was a distinguished foreign affairs commentator, human rights advocate, and futurist whose career spanned more than five decades.
Born in London to modest circumstances, he left school at 15 to work at the Ministry of Defence, where mentors inspired his lifelong commitment to peace and justice. He later studied political science at the University of Sussex, becoming the first in his family to attend university. His activism began early, pressing British leaders on apartheid and UN obligations, while honing his oratory at Speakers’ Corner in Hyde Park.
Arriving in Sydney in 1973 on a scholarship, Suter completed three doctorates and published 12 books, including the bestseller Global Notebook: 50 things you want to know about world issues … but were afraid to ask. He worked for 32 years at Wesley Mission, championing causes from Indigenous justice to nuclear disarmament. He founded the Trinity Peace Research Institute and became a leading figure in scenario planning and futurism. His voluntary service was extensive, spanning decades with the Club of Rome, the Anti-Slavery Society, the International Commission of Jurists, the Red Cross, and the UN Association of Australia. He also participated in the Foreign Minister’s National Consultative Committee on International Security for nearly 25 years.
Known for his wit and clarity, Suter was a familiar media presence, appearing on the Sunrise program of the Seven Network, delivering lectures, and writing widely. He was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2019 and received numerous peace and service awards. Until weeks before his death, he remained active in commentary and preaching. He is survived by his partner, Jane Phelan, and brother Clive. His legacy endures as a communicator, educator, and peacemaker.
The Society extends its sincere condolences to his partner, Jane, his family, and friends at this sad time.
An obituary, written by The Hon. Michael Kirby AC CMG FRSN and his partner Jane Phelan, and titled ‘An understandable voice amid the world chatter‘, was published in the Sydney Morning Herald on 19 December 2025.
