John Button was a member of the Australian Senate from 1974 to 1993. He became a well-known and influential figure in Australian politics as Leader of the Government in the Senate for ten years and Minister for Industry, Technology and Commerce.
Born in Ballarat, Button was educated at Geelong College before studying arts and law at the University of Melbourne. He practised as a lawyer, serving as senior partner at Maurice Blackburn & Co. As a minister in the Hawke Labor government, he implemented reforms of Australia's heavily protected industries, using industry plans to manage adjustment to lower protective tariffs.
Button has remained active in Labor affairs, business and the arts. His published memoirs include Flying the Kite: Travels of an Australian Politician (1994).
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