Former Liberal MP Peter Reith has died aged 72 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

The former Howard government minister also served under Liberal leaders Malcolm Fraser, Andrew Peacock, John Hewson and Alexander Downer.

He is best known for the tough reforms introduced during his time as industrial relations minister.

Senior Maritime Advisor to Prime Minister John Howard and Peter Rieth, Greg Bondar called into Ben Fordham Live to pay tribute.

“It’s a sad day because he was a really sharp mind … a really good bloke.”

Press PLAY below to hear the tribute