Vale Simon Crean: Remembering the Legacy of a Labor Leader

Former Labor leader Simon Crean dies aged 74

By 9News Staff | 10:16pm Jun 25, 2023

Tweet Facebook Mail

Former Labor leader Simon Crean has passed away at the age of 74. His family confirmed that he died in Germany after his morning exercise. Crean was a prominent figure in the Labor party and the union movement, serving in various ministries under multiple prime ministers and leading the opposition from 2001 to 2003. Tributes have poured in from both sides of the political spectrum, praising Crean’s devotion to the Labor party and the union movement, as well as highlighting his opposition to the Iraq War.

A Political Figure Remembered

Simon Crean’s impact on Australian politics is being remembered and celebrated by politicians and citizens alike. His long political career spanned over multiple prime ministerships, and he served in various portfolios, including trade, primary industries, employment, and education. Crean’s devotion to the Labor party and the union movement was unwavering, and his opposition to the Iraq War is seen as a defining moment in his political legacy.

The Crean family, in their statement, remembered him first and foremost as a loving father and husband. They emphasized his greatest achievements as being a father to his daughters Sarah and Emma and a loving husband to Carole. The couple had been married for over 50 years.

Across the Political Spectrum

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his shock at the passing of Simon Crean, describing him as a man respected by all and someone who retained his abiding sense of humanity. Albanese highlighted Crean’s courage and principled action throughout his career, particularly his opposition to the Iraq War. He also acknowledged Crean’s unwavering respect for the members of the Australian Defence Force.

Labor Treasurer Jim Chalmers described Crean as a “very good man” who was decent, generous, and wonderful company. He emphasized that Crean’s lifetime dedication to Australia and its working people will not be forgotten. Former Nationals leader Michael McCormack also expressed his sadness at Crean’s death, recounting the extraordinary advice and assistance Crean provided him during his first term as an opposition backbencher.

A Legacy of Principle and Friendship

Journalist Barrie Cassidy highlighted Crean’s principled stance against the Iraq War, recalling his statement in parliament that the true measure of friendship was to tell a friend when they were wrong. Cassidy emphasized that Crean’s opposition to the war proved him right, even though he became the only Labor leader never to contest an election.

Simon Crean came from a political family, with his father Frank Crean serving as a treasurer during the Whitlam era and his brother David Crean being a Tasmanian politician. Before entering politics, Crean spent six years as the head of the Federated Storemen and Packers’ Union and served as president of the ACTU between 1985 and 1990.

Despite his numerous accomplishments, Crean described the three turbulent years of minority government as the low point of his career. He publicly called for a leadership challenge in 2013 and retired shortly after Kevin Rudd took over from Julia Gillard as prime minister. Crean was most proud of playing a role in the signing of the Accord between the Hawke government and the ACTU.

Conclusion: A Life and Legacy Remembered

Simon Crean’s passing marks the end of an era in Australian politics. His long and dedicated service to the Labor party and the union movement will be remembered by many. His principled actions, particularly his opposition to the Iraq War, exemplify the courage and commitment he had towards his convictions. As Australia mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant, we must pay tribute to the legacy that Simon Crean leaves behind.