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Tribute to the Hon. John Button

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STATEMENT BY MR JOHN CONOMOS AO
President of the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries

On behalf of all within the Australian automotive industry, I pay tribute to former Labor Senator, the Hon. John Button.

Senator Button, as Minister for Industry, Technology and Commerce between 1983 and 1993, was a key figure in the reshaping of the Australian automotive industry.

Senator Button introduced a suite of policies, designed to open the Australian automotive industry to greater international competition and to encourage the development of a sustainable, innovative and competitive local manufacturing industry.

The ‘Button Plan’ as it was known, had a far reaching effect on the development of the industry over more than two decades and even today continues to be a benchmark for policy arrangements for the industry.

John Button was a man of vision, humour and great humility. He was a great Australian and a friend who will be long remembered by many in the Australian automotive industry.

I extend my sincere sympathies to former Senator Button’s family and friends.

JOHN CONOMOS AO