Frydenberg hints at comeback despite losing Kooyong seat

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 11 Oct, 22:54 · Archive

Former Liberal treasurer Josh Frydenberg has not ruled out re-entering politics, attacking his party's leadership in a television interview.

Former Liberal treasurer Josh Frydenberg attacked his party's leadership in a 60 Minutes interview broadcast on Sunday, saying the Liberal Party faces an 'existential' threat and that polling has fallen to an 'all-time low' under Angus Taylor. He did not rule out a political comeback, telling the programme: 'I certainly haven't closed the door, but I don't need to rush to a decision.' With the next election 18 months away, his comments come as excerpts from his memoir have fuelled speculation about his plans.

Frydenberg held the seat of Kooyong for 12 years from 2010 and was treasurer in the Morrison government. He lost the seat to independent MP Monique Ryan at the 2022 election, when she won almost 53 per cent of the two-party preferred vote.

Dr Ryan said she was unfazed by the prospect of his return. 'I'm not bothered either way,' she told Nine's Today Show on Monday. She noted that voters rejected Frydenberg over his inability to effect change on government climate policy and concerns about his economic management. Shadow treasurer Tim Wilson encouraged prospective candidates to 'put themselves forward' to strengthen the Liberal Party.

How it is being reported

• 'Existential' Liberal party threat called outFormer prominent Liberal politician Josh Frydenberg is widely expected to return to politics, but his competition isn't fazed.The West Australian · 11 Oct, 22:22
• 'Existential' Liberal party threat called outFormer prominent Liberal politician Josh Frydenberg is widely expected to return to politics, but his competition isn't fazed.Perth Now · 11 Oct, 22:22

In this story: Josh Frydenberg · Angus Taylor · Monique Ryan · Liberal Party · Kooyong

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