The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry pays tribute to former Australian Labor Party leader and Australian Council of Trade Unions president Simon Crean, who passed away suddenly in Berlin overnight. 

“As leader of the ALP, president of the ACTU, federal minister and trade advocate, Simon Crean was universally respected and above all else, a thoroughly decent person,” ACCI chief executive Andrew McKellar said.

“Simon Crean made significant contributions in both politics and policy development, taking his most prominent role in driving consensus between government and the union movement in the establishment of the Prices and Incomes Accord in 1983.

“As minister, he dedicated himself to various crucial portfolios, from education to employment, all of which played a pivotal role in shaping the economy we have today.

“In more recent years, Simon transcended politics and continued to play a highly valuable role in promoting the benefits of free trade through his leadership of the Europe Australian Business Council and the Australia-Korea Business Council.

“His legacy will be remembered by his remarkable efforts to build consensus between unions and business. ACCI extends its deepest condolences to Simon Crean’s family and friends during this challenging time.