The ACTU congratulates Bill Shorten for his contribution to public life and his unwavering commitment to working people throughout his career.
From his early days as a trainee at the ACTU in 1994, alongside current ACTU Secretary Sally McManus, to his membership of the ACTU Executive and his leadership during the 2006 Beaconsfield Mine collapse in Tasmania, Bill has always advocated for workers and their families.
As Secretary of the Australian Workers’ Union, Bill united the union and won better pay and conditions for workers across a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, mining, construction, agriculture, utilities, administration and the arts. He has never shied away from standing up for union members, even in the face of relentless attacks from the Coalition, including their launching of a politicised Royal Commission.
Among his many achievements throughout his parliamentary career, Bill’s legacy includes his advocacy for the Albanese Government’s industrial relations agenda and his unwavering support for community and disability support workers and their unions. This includes his backing of historic pay rises for the sector and his role as one of the key architects of the National Disability Insurance Scheme, which has helped millions of Australians with a disability.
Bill has always been proud of his union roots and has stood firm in his support for working people. His career reflects a deep commitment to improving the lives of the most vulnerable in society.
The ACTU thanks Bill for his service and wishes him well in the next chapter of his career.
