The Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees (AIST) has paid tribute to the contribution to the superannuation industry of Tom McDonald, the former trade union leader who died aged 95 earlier this month.
AIST CEO Eva Scheerlinck said Mr McDonald had touched the lives of millions of Australians inside and outside the superannuation industry with his fight for universal super, accident pay for injured workers, long service leave and the minimum wage system.
He retired from the union movement in 1991 after a 40-plus year career that included roles as National Secretary of the Building Workers Industrial Union and Vice President of the Australian Council of Trade Unions, but continued to volunteer in retirement.
He played a key role in negotiating super for building industry workers in the early 1980s, a development that spread to other industries, and was a founder of the fund that became Cbus.
“Tom was generous to AIST and to me personally over the years, offering sage advice and providing inspiration in our continued advocacy on behalf of women, lower paid workers and vulnerable Australians to improve their outcomes in retirement,” Ms Scheerlinck said.
“On behalf of AIST I want to pass on my condolences to his family and friends.”
