Background
Fairfax was the son of James Oswald Fairfax (1863–1928) and grandson of John Fairfax. In 1928, Fairfax married Marcie Elizabeth (Betty) Wilson, the daughter of David Wilson KC and the niece of William Hardy Wilson.
Fairfax was the son of James Oswald Fairfax (1863–1928) and grandson of John Fairfax. In 1928, Fairfax married Marcie Elizabeth (Betty) Wilson, the daughter of David Wilson KC and the niece of William Hardy Wilson.
He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts at Balliol College, Oxford after studying at Geelong Grammar and the University of Sydney (where he was resident at Street Paul"s College).
Marriages Business He was chairman of Associated Newspapers Limited. between 1956-1977. During his time as managing director and subsequently chairman, Fairfax was instrumental in floating the then privately held John Fairfax & Sons Pty Limited as John Fairfax Limited, later John Fairfax Holdings Limited and subsequently Fairfax Media. Sir Warwick"s guidance of the Herald coincided with the expansion of John Fairfax into one of the great public companies of Australia, with interests in television, radio and newsprint, as well as newspapers and magazines." He owned extensive property holdings, south-west of Sydney where he bred cattle.
This area was subsequently developed into outer residential developments in the suburb of Harrington Park.
Philanthropy and honours In 1934 Fairfax he acquired the Ure Smith publications Home and Art in Australia, and furthered their support of contemporary Australian artists. He served as Governor from 1975 to 1985.
He served on the governing council of the Australian National University from 1963 to 1974.
He defended the controversial awarding of the 1943 Archibald Prize to Dobell and purchased works by leading Australian painters.
He financially backed the Kirsova ballet company, and was a board member of the Australian Elizabethan Theatre Trust from 1954 and Vice President from 1969.