December 2, 2025 – New South Wales, Australia: The maritime and trade union communities across NSW and nationwide are mourning the passing of Fred Krausert, a beloved seafarer, lifelong trade unionist, and proud stalwart of the Seamen’s Union of Australia (SUA) and the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA). His death marks the loss of a respected leader whose life was defined by solidarity, courage, and an unshakeable commitment to the rights of working people.
What Happened?
News of Fred Krausert’s death has brought deep sadness to maritime workers, union members, and activists throughout New South Wales and across Australia. Although details surrounding his passing have not been publicly released, tributes have poured in from colleagues, union officials, and community members who acknowledge the profound void left by his departure.
Fred’s passing comes as a significant loss to the maritime community, where he spent decades advocating for safer working conditions, fair treatment, and stronger protections for seafarers.
Who Was Fred Krausert?
Fred Krausert was a respected figure in the Australian maritime sector, known for his long career on the water and his unwavering dedication to the labor movement. As a seafarer, he earned a reputation for reliability, skill, and deep knowledge of the maritime profession.
His experiences at sea shaped not only his character but also his enduring commitment to justice and fairness. Fred believed strongly in the value of hard work, unity, and standing up for what is right—values that guided him throughout his life.
To his family, Fred was more than a union figure—he was a source of love, pride, and steady encouragement. His strength of character and grounded nature left an enduring impact on those who knew him best.
Career, Activism, and Legacy
Throughout his remarkable career, Fred Krausert stood as a passionate advocate for workers within the Seamen’s Union of Australia (SUA) and later the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) following the historical union merger.
His contributions included:
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Championing seafarers’ rights during pivotal moments in the maritime industry.
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Mentoring younger union members, encouraging solidarity and leadership.
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Standing firm through disputes and negotiations, always prioritizing the welfare of workers.
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Advocating for safer conditions and equitable treatment on Australian vessels.
Fred was known for his ability to unify people, spark meaningful dialogue, and inspire collective action. His leadership was marked by fairness, integrity, and unwavering loyalty to the movement he served.
His legacy is cemented not only in the history of the MUA but also in the cultural memory of Australia’s labor movement.
Public and Social Media Reactions
Tributes from across the maritime and union sectors have poured in following the news of Fred Krausert’s passing.
Union members described him as:
“A true champion for workers, someone who never wavered in his commitment to justice.”
Others called him:
“A mentor, a brother, and a symbol of what solidarity truly means.”
Messages of condolence and appreciation continue to circulate on social media under hashtags like #FredKrausert, #MUA, #UnionStrong, and #RestInPower, reflecting the widespread respect Fred earned throughout his life.
Official Statements or What Happens Next
The Maritime Union of Australia is expected to release an official statement honoring Fred’s decades of service and acknowledging the impact he made within both the SUA and MUA.
Funeral or memorial arrangements have not yet been publicly announced, but community members anticipate a gathering where unionists, seafarers, friends, and family can honor his memory and legacy.
Further details regarding services, public tributes, or memorial events will be shared as they become available.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
