Former federal treasurer Josh Frydenberg launched his memoir, *A Grateful Son*, at a well-attended event in Melbourne on Wednesday, where he offered candid reflections on his political career and the Australian political landscape. Among his remarks, Frydenberg described former Victorian premier Dan Andrews as “a bad guy,” drawing considerable attention.

The event, held at Malvern Town Hall, drew a crowd of around 600 people, including notable figures such as former Victorian premier Jeff Kennett, former state Liberal Party president Michael Kroger, current party president Brian Loughnane, and several Liberal state MPs including Rachel Westaway, Michael O’Brien, Georgie Crozier, Brad Rowswell, and deputy leader David Southwick. Former federal minister Alan Tudge and swimming champion Grant Hackett were also present. Frydenberg was joined by his family, including his wife Amie, their two children, his parents, and his sister Lexi and her family.

Frydenberg, who represented the seat of Kooyong for 12 years before losing to teal independent Monique Ryan in the 2022 election, addressed speculation about a possible political comeback but dismissed the idea, saying the memoir was not intended as a “job application.” He expressed fondness for his time in parliament and recalled the challenges and achievements of his tenure, including managing the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The memoir also addresses key moments in Frydenberg’s career, such as his relationship with former prime minister Scott Morrison and his leadership in response to rising antisemitism and hate following the October 7 massacres and the Bondi terror attack. Frydenberg’s speech following the Bondi incident was described by AFL commentator Gerard Healy as “simply the most important speech from any Australian in my lifetime.”

Western Sydney University chancellor Jennifer Westacott also praised Frydenberg’s contribution, urging a forthcoming royal commission into antisemitism to consider his speech and submission when delivering its report this December. Westacott emphasized the importance of these contributions for national healing and restoring social cohesion.

Throughout the book and the event, Frydenberg reflected on the shifting dynamics within Australian politics, including the rise of Pauline Hanson’s One Nation. The memoir provides a personal and political account covering Frydenberg’s upbringing, his parliamentary service, and his observations on contemporary Australian issues.