Can Tony Abbott save the Liberal party?

Can Tony Abbott save the Liberal party?

From 7am by Solstice Media

June 5, 2026 · 16 min · Episode 1939

About this episode

The episode discusses Tony Abbott's return to Liberal Party politics and the implications for the party's future amidst a crisis.

Tony Abbott is back at the centre of Liberal Party politics.  The former prime minister has been elected unopposed as federal Liberal Party president – a role that sounds administrative, but carries real political weight at a moment of deep trouble for the Coalition. The Liberals are watching voters drift to One Nation, while Abbott argues the answer is to take the fight directly to Labor. But his return sharpens a deeper question inside the party about whether the Liberals can rebuild by reviving the politics of the Abbott era, or whether that only deepens the crisis they’re trying to escape.  Today, press gallery veteran Paul Bongiorno, on Tony Abbott’s comeback, the future of the Liberal Party and how the government is trying to turn the opposition’s crisis into a test of its own authority.    If you enjoy 7am , the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support .   Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Press gallery veteran Paul Bongiorno Photo:  AAP Image/Joel Carrett See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People in this episode

Guest: Paul Bongiorno

Topics covered

  • Tony Abbott
  • Liberal Party politics
  • Coalition crisis
  • One Nation
  • Labor
  • political strategy

Keywords

  • Tony Abbott
  • Liberal Party
  • Coalition
  • One Nation
  • Labor
  • politics
  • Paul Bongiorno

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Liberal Party, Coalition, One Nation, Labor, 7am, Solstice Media

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