The 36th Premier of New South Wales, serving from 1986 to 1988, known for his leadership during a tumultuous period in the state's history, marked by economic and industrial reforms.
Barrie Unsworth is a household name in Australian politics, known for his tenure as the 36th Premier of New South Wales from July 1986 to March 1988, representing the Labor Party in the Parliament of New South Wales from 1978 to 1991.
A stalwart of the labor movement, Unsworth's political career was marked by his unwavering commitment to the working class and his tireless efforts to improve the lives of Australians.
Born on April 16, 1934, in Dubbo, New South Wales, Unsworth was the son of Joseph and Olive Unsworth. He was educated in Sydney, attending Kogarah High School, and left school at the age of 15 to apprentice as an electrical fitter.
Unsworth's union career began in 1961 when he became an organiser of the Electrical Trades Union. His dedication and leadership skills earned him a Churchill Fellowship in 1966 to attend Harvard University's Trade Union Program. He was elected to the Labor Council of NSW in 1967 and served as its Secretary from 1979 to 1984.
In 1978, Unsworth entered politics, representing the Labor Party in the Parliament of New South Wales. He held various portfolios, including Minister for Transport and Minister for Health, before becoming the Premier of New South Wales in 1986.
During his premiership, Unsworth implemented several reforms, including the introduction of the NSW Workers' Compensation Scheme and the establishment of the NSW Ministry for the Status of Women. He also played a key role in the formation of the Sydney Olympic Bid Committee, which ultimately led to Sydney hosting the 2000 Summer Olympics.
Unsworth's contributions to the labor movement and public service have been recognized with various awards and honors. He was awarded the Centenary Medal in 2001 for his services to Australian society and was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) in 2013 for his eminent service to the people and Parliament of New South Wales.
In 1955, Unsworth married Pauline Hennessy, and they have one daughter and three sons, with nine grandchildren and two great-grandsons. He is also a proud owner of a rural property in the Southern Highlands, where he enjoys farming and rural pursuits.
As the oldest living premier of an Australian state, Unsworth's legacy continues to inspire generations of Australians. His commitment to social justice, his unwavering support for the working class, and his tireless efforts to improve the lives of Australians have earned him a place in the annals of Australian political history.
In the words of Unsworth himself, "The Labor Party is not just a political party, it's a movement. It's about people coming together to make a difference in their community."
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