Former Labor Party leader Simon Crean passes away at 74
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It's a sad day for Australian politics, as former Labor party leader Simon Crean has passed away at the age of 74.
A prominent figure within the Labor Party, Crean dedicated his life to the betterment of his nation and the Labor movement. Having served as a parliamentarian for 23 years, he was a cabinet minister under the leadership of Bob Hawke, Paul Keating, Julia Gillard, and Kevin Rudd.
In a statement released by his family, they said, 'Simon was a fierce advocate for working Australians and dedicated his life to making a difference.'
Crean's passion for politics and public service, as well as his commitment to fairness and justice for working people, extended across various portfolios from trade to employment, from primary industries and energy to the arts.
Throughout his career, he consistently focused on the national interest, engaged with stakeholders, and acted with principle and determination.
Born into a political family, Crean followed the footsteps of his father, Frank Crean, who served as Treasurer under Gough Whitlam's government and as Deputy Prime Minister during its final months. As one of the architects of the Hawke government's industrial relations reforms in the 1980s, Crean played a significant role in shaping modern Labor policies.
Australian Labor's history owes a great debt to Crean, not only for his diverse contributions but also for his role in bridging the gap between unions and employers in 1983 through his involvement in The Accord. Kevin Rudd, former prime minister, credited Crean for ushering the industrial relations system into the 21st century.
In addition to his political achievements, Crean was well respected for his generosity, kindness, and support towards young unionists and those seeking his guidance. Current ACTU President, Michele O’Neil, praised him as a 'leader of conviction and courage'.
Elected as the Member for Hotham in 1990, he became the Minister for Science under the Hawke government and later became the Labor Party's deputy leader in 1998. After being elected unopposed as the leader in 2001, he resigned in 2003, making him the first Labor leader in decades to step down without contesting in an election.
Crean's life and work inspired many, including former prime minister Julia Gillard, who said, 'He hated injustice and fought hard to bring opportunity to all. He took his work seriously but was also caring, sociable, and fun.'
Deputy Prime Minister Tanya Plibersek remembered Crean as 'smart, principled, courageous, and kind', while current Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the former leader was 'a great servant of the Labor party and of the broader Labor movement' and 'thoroughly decent and kind'.
His dedication and contributions to the Labor Party and Australia did not end upon retiring from politics. Albanese pointed out that Crean held significant roles, such as chairman of the European Australian Business Council, even after his political career had ended.
As we reflect on the life and accomplishments of Simon Crean, the Australian political landscape seems much poorer for his absence. We at the Seniors Discount Club would like to extend our condolences to his wife, Carole, his daughters, Sarah and Emma, and the many friends and colleagues who will surely feel the loss of such an exceptional man.
Rest in peace, Simon Crean. You will be remembered for your conviction, passion, and tireless dedication to Australia.
A prominent figure within the Labor Party, Crean dedicated his life to the betterment of his nation and the Labor movement. Having served as a parliamentarian for 23 years, he was a cabinet minister under the leadership of Bob Hawke, Paul Keating, Julia Gillard, and Kevin Rudd.
In a statement released by his family, they said, 'Simon was a fierce advocate for working Australians and dedicated his life to making a difference.'
Crean's passion for politics and public service, as well as his commitment to fairness and justice for working people, extended across various portfolios from trade to employment, from primary industries and energy to the arts.
Throughout his career, he consistently focused on the national interest, engaged with stakeholders, and acted with principle and determination.
The former Labor leader and cabinet minister, Simon Crean, has died at age 74. Credit: Twitter/jeromelaxale.
Born into a political family, Crean followed the footsteps of his father, Frank Crean, who served as Treasurer under Gough Whitlam's government and as Deputy Prime Minister during its final months. As one of the architects of the Hawke government's industrial relations reforms in the 1980s, Crean played a significant role in shaping modern Labor policies.
Australian Labor's history owes a great debt to Crean, not only for his diverse contributions but also for his role in bridging the gap between unions and employers in 1983 through his involvement in The Accord. Kevin Rudd, former prime minister, credited Crean for ushering the industrial relations system into the 21st century.
In addition to his political achievements, Crean was well respected for his generosity, kindness, and support towards young unionists and those seeking his guidance. Current ACTU President, Michele O’Neil, praised him as a 'leader of conviction and courage'.
Elected as the Member for Hotham in 1990, he became the Minister for Science under the Hawke government and later became the Labor Party's deputy leader in 1998. After being elected unopposed as the leader in 2001, he resigned in 2003, making him the first Labor leader in decades to step down without contesting in an election.
Crean's life and work inspired many, including former prime minister Julia Gillard, who said, 'He hated injustice and fought hard to bring opportunity to all. He took his work seriously but was also caring, sociable, and fun.'
Deputy Prime Minister Tanya Plibersek remembered Crean as 'smart, principled, courageous, and kind', while current Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the former leader was 'a great servant of the Labor party and of the broader Labor movement' and 'thoroughly decent and kind'.
His dedication and contributions to the Labor Party and Australia did not end upon retiring from politics. Albanese pointed out that Crean held significant roles, such as chairman of the European Australian Business Council, even after his political career had ended.
As we reflect on the life and accomplishments of Simon Crean, the Australian political landscape seems much poorer for his absence. We at the Seniors Discount Club would like to extend our condolences to his wife, Carole, his daughters, Sarah and Emma, and the many friends and colleagues who will surely feel the loss of such an exceptional man.
Rest in peace, Simon Crean. You will be remembered for your conviction, passion, and tireless dedication to Australia.
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