The former Labor leader may be taking a classic approach to leaving his job; burning up all his accrued holiday time with a trip to Europe.

Simon Crean was one of Kevin Rudd’s strongest backers in his recent return to power, after which Crean announced he would be bowing out of politics at the next election. Mr Crean has now set off on a taxpayer-funded sojourn around Europe, all part of his parliamentary privileges, which will reportedly include cooking lessons in Rome and fashion shopping in Milan.

Mr Crean dodged all questions on his way out of the country, with many keen to find out what educational benefit the trip will have when it ends just weeks before his retirement. One commentator has speculated Crean may learn some nation-changing pasta preparation techniques.  

The Remuneration Tribunal announced last year that the entitlement for parliamentarians to take overseas study trips will be phased out. MPs no longer accrue a $23,000 entitlement for overseas study travel, but those who have an entitlement are being allowed to access it.

The MP travel perk is being axed this year after concerns that politicians are exploiting the generous allowance for their own enjoyment.