Richard Hal SNAPE (1936 - 2002)

Professor of Economics  (1971 - 1999)

Emeritus Professor Richard Snape, well known at Monash throughout an academic career that spanned three decades, passed away earlier this month after a long illness.

Professor Snape was recognised as a leading expert on international economics and for his role in building the economics department  at Monash. He joined the university in 1962 and was appointed professor of economics in 1971, a position he held until December 1999.

In addition to his significant contribution as an academic, Professor Snape was involved in the Productivity and Industry Commission inquiries into the Price Regulation of Airport Services, Telecommunications Specific Competition Regulation and Broadcasting. His most recent position was as deputy chairman of the Productivity Commission.

Professor Snape's  knowledge of the economic world was well respected, and his work was recognised when his peers elected him distinguished fellow of the Economic Society of Australia.

University colleague and friend Emeritus Professor Alan Powell described him as a highly productive scholar who was dedicated to Monash.

He said Professor Snape was ambitious for the university and its early development as a major centre of graduate studies and research.

"The profession and the university has lost a fine scholar and a fine human being," he said.

Published in Monash Memo, 24 October 2002.