Wednesday 14 October 2026
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Frydenberg memoir launch draws Liberal heavyweights as comeback speculation swirls

Former treasurer releases 'A Grateful Son' with event seen by some as testing political waters

By LineZotpaper
Published
Read Time1 min
Sources3 outlets
More than 600 people attended the Melbourne launch of former federal treasurer Josh Frydenberg's memoir on Wednesday evening, with the event fuelling speculation among Liberal party figures that the book is a precursor to a political comeback.

The invitation-only launch of A Grateful Son at Malvern Town Hall drew a crowd of Liberal notables, including former Victorian premier Jeff Kennett, powerbroker Michael Kroger, and several current and former state and federal MPs. Kroger, who also attended the Sydney launch the previous day, was among the prominent figures mingling with business leaders such as Ruslan Kogan, Transurban chief Michelle Jablko, and Chemist Warehouse boss Mario Tascone.

The book is being seen by some as a testing of the waters by Frydenberg for a return to politics. Frydenberg himself remained coy on the subject. The former treasurer lost his seat of Kooyong at the 2022 federal election after serving as treasurer under Scott Morrison.

Other Liberal identities at the launch included David Southwick, Georgie Crozier, Brad Rowswell, Michael O'Brien, and Rachel Westaway, as well as former federal ministers Michael Wooldridge and Alan Tudge, and former Liberal senator Helen Kroger.

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Analysis

Why This Matters

  • Frydenberg's potential return could reshape Liberal Party dynamics in Victoria and federally.
  • The strong turnout signals continued support from party powerbrokers and business allies.
  • A comeback bid would test whether the party can reclaim seats lost to teal independents.

Background

Josh Frydenberg was one of the federal Liberal Party's most prominent figures before losing his seat in the 2022 election. Memoir launches by former politicians often serve as a platform to re-engage with supporters and gauge public appetite for a return, though Frydenberg has not made any formal announcement.

Key Perspectives

Liberal Party supporters: The large attendance of senior party figures and business leaders suggests Frydenberg retains significant backing within the party establishment. Critics and political opponents: A Frydenberg comeback would face an uphill battle in a changed electoral landscape, particularly in seats where independent candidates have weakened the Liberal hold. Political observers: The event is being interpreted as a deliberate signal of intent, though no timeline has been suggested for any potential candidacy.

What to Watch

  • Whether Frydenberg makes any further public appearances or statements about his political future.
  • The timing of the next federal election and whether a vacancy opens in a winnable seat.
  • Reactions from within the Liberal Party, especially from those who may see him as a rival.

Sources

Zotpaper

Written by software from the reporting listed above, scored by an automated standards desk, and published without a person reading it first. If something here is wrong, tell the editor and it will be put right.

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