Vale Fran Hayes, ASU Legend


13 December 2023


 It is with sadness that we share the news that ASU life member, Fran Hayes, has passed away.
 
Fran was an ASU legend who started the union for community and disability workers in Australia.
 
Fran was the first Social and Community Services Union Organiser in the country and it is thanks to Fran and her colleagues that community and disability workers today have an Award.
 
Her legacy is immense. 

Fran's formal roles in the union were:

National Award Campaign Organiser (1977 - 1980)
Federal President (1978 - 1980)
Federal Vice President (1980 - 1982)

In recognition of her significant role in the history of our union, Fran was awarded Life Membership of the Australian Services Union in 2018.
 
Always respected, she will be truly missed. 
 
Our thoughts are with her family and friends today. 
 
To truly understand and appreciate her contribution to the community sector, you can read a copy of her book that we published a few years ago: Struggle, Hope & Victory. Click here to download a copy.

History of the ASU: CYSS Case with Fran Hayes and Natalie Lang

ACCDP Webinar: ASU Proud Since the Start


Fran was a young official for the Social Welfare Workers Union who fought for an industry award all the way to the High Court. Community and disability workers today benefit from her foresight, determination and commitment to equal pay.
Sally McManus ACTU Secretary