Frydenberg says he was loyal to fault under Morrison

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 13 Oct, 18:02 · Archive

Former Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has described himself as 'loyal to a fault' while serving under Scott Morrison.

Josh Frydenberg, Australia's former treasurer, has described himself as 'loyal to a fault' during his time in parliament as he launched his memoir A Grateful Son at a Sydney Writers' Festival event on Tuesday. Speaking to ABC journalist Leigh Sales before a crowd of about 300 people including his parents, Frydenberg said he left Canberra 'remaining an optimist' and a believer in the integrity of the political system despite losing his seat of Kooyong to independent Monique Ryan at the 2022 election.

Frydenberg characterised Scott Morrison, under whom he served as treasurer through the COVID-19 pandemic, as 'extremely ambitious' and 'transactional'. He revealed in his memoir that Morrison had asked him to run on a joint leadership ticket, which he declined in favour of standing independently. Frydenberg said Morrison later publicly presented this decision as a mutual one, giving insight into leadership dynamics that 'can tear parties apart'.

The release of the book has fuelled speculation that Frydenberg could return to politics, which he has said he remains open to. He held the seat of Kooyong for 12 years from 2010 before his defeat.

How it is being reported

• 'Loyal to a fault': Frydenberg on working with MorrisonFormer Treasurer Josh Frydenberg says he was "loyal to a fault" during his time in Scott Morrison's government, as he launches his new memoir.The West Australian · 13 Oct, 17:37
• 'Loyal to a fault': Frydenberg on working with MorrisonFormer Treasurer Josh Frydenberg says he was "loyal to a fault" during his time in Scott Morrison's government, as he launches his new memoir.Perth Now · 13 Oct, 17:37

In this story: Josh Frydenberg · Scott Morrison · Monique Ryan · Kooyong · ABC

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