The Rise and Fall of a Political Phenomenon
Jeff Kennett was only 34 years of age, the youngest MP in the party, when he was made leader of the Victorian Liberals in 1982, before eventually becoming premier of Victoria. An unabashed populist, he proved to be the most controversial and colourful of all contemporary Australian politicians. For many people, Kennett's turbulent career reflects the contradictions of the man himself and leaves intriguing questions unanswered.
Why did an avowed entrepreneur enter politics? Who was the man beneath the brash facade? What truths lurk behind the scandals, the public posturing, the political schemes and the power plays? Why, at the height of his strength, did Kennett lose an election everyone expected him to win? And what is his political legacy?
This intimate look at the most tumultuous career in politics provides the answers.
