Paul Keating Biography

Paul John Keating was the 24th Prime Minister of Australia who held the post from December 1991 to March 1996. He had been in politics for long before his career culminated in his being chosen the Prime Minister. The Keating government in Australia is credited to have ushered in a new era of economic growth that led to a higher standard of living for the citizens. Keating, who had previously served as the Treasurer had a major role to play in shaping the country’s financial system and economy. The highly intelligent politician introduced policies for building economic competitiveness and deregulating Australia’s economy. He always had an inherent interest in politics and entered the parliament when he was just 25 years of age—making him one of the youngest federal parliamentarians. He went on to be appointed the Treasurer during the Hawke Government and successfully challenged Hawke for the Labor leadership later on. After becoming the Prime Minister he implemented a succession of progressive reforms which aimed at dismantling trade barriers, regulating industries and adoption of tax reforms. He stepped down from the post in 1996 post his defeat to John Howard. He became a successful businessman after his retirement from politics.