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Fraser Barton

Former Qld premier Mike Ahern to receive state funeral

The family of former Queensland premier Mike Ahern have accepted an offer for a state funeral. (Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOS)

Former Queensland premier Mike Ahern will receive a state funeral after his family accepted an offer from the state government. 

Mr Ahern died aged 81 on August 11 at his Sunshine Coast home after a battle with cancer. 

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the service would be held in Caloundra on Friday.

"As a mark of respect, the treasurer and I will be attending, along with the Member for Caloundra, to represent the government," Ms Palaszczuk told parliament on Tuesday.

"Mike Ahern devoted his post-political life to charity and education and has been recognised with an Order of Australia.

"He was also named a Queensland Great."

The former National Party leader was premier from 1987 to 1989 after the long reign Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen, and he faced the difficult task of steering the state during the fallout from the Fitzgerald Inquiry into police and official corruption.

After the release of the royal commission's report, Mr Ahern famously declared his government would implement its reforms "lock, stock and barrel".

Leaders from across the political divide paid tribute to Mr Ahern as a man of integrity. 

State parliament will mark Mr Ahern's death with a condolence motion when his family can attend.

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