Josh Frydenberg hints at political return during book promotion media tour

Former treasurer and deputy Liberal Party leader Josh Frydenberg has fueled speculation about returning to Australian politics. The Guardian, ABC News, and the Daily Mail reported that Mr Frydenberg repeatedly refused to rule out a return while conducting a media circuit to promote his new book. [1][2][3]

During interviews on television, radio, and podcasts, Mr Frydenberg teased a potential return and questioned the current direction of the Liberal Party. SBS reported that he stated things have to change while questioning the Liberal leadership. The Guardian noted that the speculation creates a leadership alternative alongside current Liberal leader Angus Taylor. [1][5]

The response from federal politicians has been mixed. ABC News reported that Liberal colleagues offered a lukewarm response, with one politician saying the party cannot wait for him to save them. One Nation politician Barnaby Joyce criticized Mr Frydenberg, telling him to be upfront about his leadership ambitions. The Daily Mail added that Mr Joyce warned a comeback could drive conservative voters away from the Liberal Party to One Nation. [2][3]

Mr Frydenberg was elected as the member of Parliament for the Victorian seat of Kooyong in 2010. He served as treasurer in the Morrison government from 2018 to 2022 and held several ministerial positions in the Abbott and Turnbull governments. He lost his seat in 2022 to independent candidate Monique Ryan amid a shift toward climate-focused candidates. [8][9]

Mr Frydenberg maintained during his book tour that he had been content after losing his seat. 7NEWS reported that he has outlined when he will announce whether a formal return to politics is on. [2][7]