Robert Hill was a member of the Australian Senate from 1981 to 2006, representing South Australia. Robert was Leader of the Government in the Senate from March 1996 until his resignation in January 2006. He has held a variety of portfolios, including as Minister for the Environment 1996 – 1998 and Minister for the Environment and Heritage 1998 – 2002. In June 2012 Robert was awarded a Companion of the Order of Australia for eminent service to the Parliament.