The ACTU mourns the loss of Joe Isaac, a gifted economist who made a remarkable contribution to the public discourse surrounding industrial relations over the last 60 years.

He was one of a select number of academics who has succeed in influencing both theory and practice in the field of labour economics and industrial relations not only in Australia but around the world.

In 1989 Isaac was awarded an Order of Australia for his long and distinguished service to industrial relations and education.

Emeritus Professor of Economics at the University of Melbourne, Isaac just last year published a paper arguing for a major overhaul of IR laws to restore the power of unions.

Quotes attributable to ACTU Secretary Sally McManus

“Joe Isaac made an incredible contribution to the understanding of industrial relations and labour economics over 60 years and will be sorely missed.

“The Australian union movement is indebted to Professor Isaacs for his work. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”