James Kennedy

Sir James Arthur Kennedy (1882–1954) was an Australian politician and sportsman. Kennedy served as a minister in the Dunstan and Hollway Victorian state governments in the 1940s. He played Australian rules football for Essendon and Carlton during the early 1900s. He was the brother of fellow footballer Ted Kennedy.

Biography Kennedy was born 5 February 1882 to James and Emma Kennedy in Parkville, Victoria. He first attended school at Errol Street State School before receiving a scholarship to attend Parkville Grammar School. He later attended Scotch College, graduating in 1897.

In 1913 he was married to Ann Taylor Biggins at the Congregational church in Carlton. They later had two daughters.

After several seasons away from the VFL, Kennedy joined Carlton in 1905, a year after his brother Ted had arrived at the club. His first year with Carlton was his most successful in the VFL, playing 18 matches

He was later president of the Brighton Cricket Club and in 1945 was appointed a trustee of the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Under Premier Albert Dunstan he served in the Transport and Mines portfolios from 18 September 1943 to 2 October 1945.

Death and legacy Kennedy died on 20 November 1954 at the Brighton home of his daughter. He was buried at the Melbourne General Cemetery. A commemorative window was dedicated to him at the Brighton Congregational Church in 1957.