Fraser made Australia better: Kirby

Former High Court judge Michael Kirby has remembered his friend Malcolm Fraser as a man of amazing service.

Justice Kirby said his most powerful memory was how those in the federal arena were actually "quite frightened" of the former prime minister and his razor gang.

"That was partly because of his aloofness, his reserve, but he was a very determined and strong person," Justice Kirby told Sky News on Friday.

The former chairman of the Australian Law Reform Commission from 1975-84 said Mr Fraser became a "questioner of all things" in his later years.

He raised concerns about Australia's treatment of asylum seekers, relationship with the United States and the country's anti-terrorism measures.

Mr Fraser made Australia a better place, especially through his contributions to promoting multiculturalism, Justice Kirby said.

"I honour him and I'm proud to have called him a friend."