Overview
Concetto Antonio "Con" Sciacca (13 June 1947 – 21 June 2017) was an Italian-born Australian politician who represented the Division of Bowman in the Australian House of Representatives as a member of the Australian Labor Party. His parliamentary service was non-consecutive: first from July 1987 to March 1996, and after a single-term defeat he returned from October 1998 until his retirement in October 2004. He was born in Sicily, Italy, and settled in Australia as part of the post‑war migrant era that diversified the nation.
Early life and community roots
Sciacca's life reflected the experience of many mid‑20th century migrants who made new lives in Australia. While born in Sicily, he became identified with the Brisbane region and built a public profile that connected migrant communities with broader Australian civic life. He was known for maintaining close links with local organisations and with Italian‑Australian groups in his electorate.
Parliamentary career
Representing a coastal and suburban seat in Queensland, Sciacca's time in federal parliament spanned both opposition and government periods for his party. His career included constituency work, campaigning on local issues in Bowman, and participation in parliamentary debate on matters affecting immigrants, families and small business — themes commonly raised by MPs from electorates with diverse populations. His return to parliament in 1998 after defeat demonstrated persistence in a marginal seat environment.
Key dates and facts
- Born: 13 June 1947, Sicily, Italy.
- First elected to the House of Representatives: July 1987.
- Served until March 1996; returned October 1998; retired October 2004.
- Died 21 June 2017 in Brisbane from liver cancer at age 70.
Legacy and significance
Sciacca is remembered as part of a generation of migrant Australians who entered public office and helped broaden political representation. His career highlighted the electoral dynamics of outer metropolitan Queensland, where local concerns, immigrant networks and national policy intersect. After leaving federal politics he continued to be recognised for his community involvement and advocacy for access to services in multicultural settings.
Notable context
Con Sciacca's life and service are often cited in discussions about the role of ethnic communities in Australian politics and the shifting fortunes of marginal seats. His death in 2017 prompted tributes that reflected both his parliamentary service and his long‑standing ties to constituents in Bowman and the broader Brisbane area.