Former leader Simon Crean remembered as Labor stalwart

"He's someone who was respected right across the political spectrum because he was a very honourable man." - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

"His loss will be keenly felt throughout the broad labour movement, to which he dedicated so much of his life." - Former prime minister John Howard

"There's been a Crean in public life since the 1940s, so he really was that connection to Labor's extraordinary history." - Assistant Minister Andrew Leigh

"He always had time for the shopkeeper on Clayton Road, the fruit shopkeeper, the Chinese or Maltese migrant. He would always stop, always give them a hug. He was a very special human being." - Victorian Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulos

"He was a leader of conviction and courage and was generous and supportive to young unionists and all those who sought his support and advice. His legacy has made a lasting impact on the wages, entitlements, safety and retirement dignity of working people." - ACTU President Michele O'Neil

"Simon Crean was a great champion of regional and rural Australia over several decades." - Regional Australia Institute Chair Christian Zahra

"He was a strident campaigner for free trade and sought to support industries to reach their potential." - Australian Livestock Exporters Council

Australian Associated Press