Robert was educated at the University of Adelaide and the University of London. He practiced law as a Barrister and Solicitor. he served in the Australian Senate for 25 years including 10 years as Government Leader. In government he served as Minister for the Environment and Minister for Defence of Australia. He was subsequently Australia's Ambassador to the U.N. in New York. Back in Australia he chaired and directed a number of Institutes in various Universities. He was Chancellor of the University of Adelaide. In the private sector he chairs a number of companies in the Environment and Defence sectors. He was made a Companion of the Order of Australia in 2012.