Former NSW treasurer Michael Egan passes away at 75
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Australia mourns the loss of one of its most dedicated public servants, Michael Egan, who passed away at 75.
Egan, who served as the longest-serving treasurer of New South Wales (NSW), leaves behind a legacy of economic reform and public service that spanned nearly a quarter of a century.
Egan's political journey began in 1978 when he was elected to the Legislative Assembly as a member for Cronulla in Sydney’s south.
He served the people of Cronulla for five years before moving to the upper house, where he continued to serve for more than 18 years.
NSW Premier Chris Minns and Treasurer Daniel Mookhey issued a joint statement acknowledging Egan's significant contributions to the state and the country.
They described him as a 'dedicated and accomplished public servant' who will be greatly missed.
Egan started his tenure as NSW treasurer from 1995 to 2005 under Bob Carr’s Labor government.
‘Michael dedicated his long career to serving the people of NSW,’ the statement read.
‘During this nearly quarter-century career, Michael held the honour of being the longest serving Treasurer in NSW history—for nearly a decade between 3 April 1995 and 21 January 2005. He was the first member of the upper house to do so.’
‘On becoming treasurer, Michael rapidly returned the NSW budget to surplus and kept it there, building the Carr government’s reputation for economic and fiscal competence.’
His stewardship saw the state 'all but eliminate' net government debt, allowing significant investment in essential services and infrastructure.
Egan's tenure also coincided with the hosting of the Olympic Games, a monumental event that showcased Australia on the global stage.
The pair noted Egan ‘cherished our democratic institutions’ and his ability to navigate the complex world of politics.
‘Impatient with theorists and purists, he excelled at producing economic and social reforms through the messy compromise of politics,’ they said.
‘He drove changes to make NSW ports, energy, rail and water more competitive, reducing prices for households and businesses, improving living standards and creating jobs.’
After retiring from politics, Egan continued to serve his community in various capacities.
From 2008 to 2019, he served as the chancellor of Macquarie University, where he continued to influence the next generation of leaders.
In recognition of his contributions, the university awarded him an honorary doctorate in 2022 and named a hall in his honour.
Egan also served as the chair of the Australia Day Council of NSW between 2006 and 2010 and the chair of the Centenary Institute of Cancer Medicine and Cell Biology since 2009.
‘Our thoughts are with Michael’s loved ones at this difficult time. Michael will be greatly missed by all who knew him.’
As we remember Michael Egan, we are reminded of his unwavering dedication to public service and his significant contributions to the economic prosperity of NSW. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders in Australia.
Our thoughts are with Michael Egan’s family, friends, and colleagues. May his soul rest in peace.
Egan, who served as the longest-serving treasurer of New South Wales (NSW), leaves behind a legacy of economic reform and public service that spanned nearly a quarter of a century.
Egan's political journey began in 1978 when he was elected to the Legislative Assembly as a member for Cronulla in Sydney’s south.
He served the people of Cronulla for five years before moving to the upper house, where he continued to serve for more than 18 years.
Former NSW Treasure Michael Egan died at 75. Credit: news.com.au
NSW Premier Chris Minns and Treasurer Daniel Mookhey issued a joint statement acknowledging Egan's significant contributions to the state and the country.
They described him as a 'dedicated and accomplished public servant' who will be greatly missed.
Egan started his tenure as NSW treasurer from 1995 to 2005 under Bob Carr’s Labor government.
‘Michael dedicated his long career to serving the people of NSW,’ the statement read.
‘During this nearly quarter-century career, Michael held the honour of being the longest serving Treasurer in NSW history—for nearly a decade between 3 April 1995 and 21 January 2005. He was the first member of the upper house to do so.’
‘On becoming treasurer, Michael rapidly returned the NSW budget to surplus and kept it there, building the Carr government’s reputation for economic and fiscal competence.’
His stewardship saw the state 'all but eliminate' net government debt, allowing significant investment in essential services and infrastructure.
Egan's tenure also coincided with the hosting of the Olympic Games, a monumental event that showcased Australia on the global stage.
The pair noted Egan ‘cherished our democratic institutions’ and his ability to navigate the complex world of politics.
‘Impatient with theorists and purists, he excelled at producing economic and social reforms through the messy compromise of politics,’ they said.
‘He drove changes to make NSW ports, energy, rail and water more competitive, reducing prices for households and businesses, improving living standards and creating jobs.’
After retiring from politics, Egan continued to serve his community in various capacities.
From 2008 to 2019, he served as the chancellor of Macquarie University, where he continued to influence the next generation of leaders.
In recognition of his contributions, the university awarded him an honorary doctorate in 2022 and named a hall in his honour.
Egan also served as the chair of the Australia Day Council of NSW between 2006 and 2010 and the chair of the Centenary Institute of Cancer Medicine and Cell Biology since 2009.
‘Our thoughts are with Michael’s loved ones at this difficult time. Michael will be greatly missed by all who knew him.’
As we remember Michael Egan, we are reminded of his unwavering dedication to public service and his significant contributions to the economic prosperity of NSW. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders in Australia.
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