A high-profile book launch for former treasurer Josh Frydenberg’s memoir, *A Grateful Son*, attracted a significant gathering of political figures, business leaders, and media personalities in Sydney on Tuesday. However, the event notably proceeded without the attendance of former Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Frydenberg’s colleague during the COVID-19 pandemic years, raising questions about the nature of their relationship.
The launch took place at the headquarters of publisher HarperCollins in Sydney and was attended by various senior figures from the Liberal Party and broader political and business circles. Despite Morrison being in town—confirmed by his presence at another event just days prior—he did not attend the reception, and did not offer a public explanation for his absence. Frydenberg commented that he had exchanged messages with Morrison ahead of the launch but did not elaborate further.
Observers speculated that Morrison’s decision may be linked to recent public tensions, including an article by Frydenberg critiquing Morrison’s leadership with a headline accusing him of betrayal, which appeared in a major national newspaper. Morrison did not respond to requests for comment.
The event featured a speech from former Prime Minister John Howard, who delivered an impromptu address touching on political challenges Frydenberg faced, his own views on political resilience, and the upcoming election in Israel. Howard, who predicted a continued leadership role for Benjamin Netanyahu, also lightened the mood with humor regarding Frydenberg’s book title, calling it “a very modest, self-effacing title,” and noting it was likely the only modest thing Frydenberg had ever said.
The launch attracted a broad array of attendees, including former Reserve Bank governor Philip Lowe and economist Chris Richardson, who were seen deep in conversation. Former defense minister Linda Reynolds, former high commissioner to the UK George Brandis, former governor-general Peter Cosgrove, ex-Labor defense industry minister Mike Kelly, and former intelligence chief Dennis Richardson were also present.
The gathering included notable figures from the Jewish business community such as billionaire philanthropist Steven Lowy and leaders of the Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council, including Paul Rubenstein and Dr Colin Rubenstein. David Ossip, president of the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, was also in attendance.
Business leaders such as Tenet Advisory & Investments CEO Paul Howes and former AustralianSuper head Ian Silk were in the audience, alongside prominent media figures including journalists Michelle Gunn, Ben English, and Paul Whittaker. The event also drew personalities from the media and political commentary sectors, including Mia Freedman, Fran Kelly, Pamella Palme McGuinness, and Liberal Party powerbroker Michael Kroger.
Friends and former staff of Frydenberg were well represented, including his chief of staff Martin Codina, credited with coining the JobKeeper program, along with senior advisers Spiro Premet and Nathan Wonder.
Overall, the event underscored Frydenberg’s enduring connections within the political, business, and media communities despite recent political shifts and raised questions about the status of his relationship with Morrison.