Memorandum to a New Leader: Substance, Capability, Unity

The most important characteristic Australians are looking for is alternative independent and capable leadership. This vote was unique. It shows that you command support from all factions of the party. In the most unusual leadership ballot in one hundred years all of the factions of the party were split asunder by this leadership vote. The NSW right and the national right were split. The hard left were split. The soft left were split - to the extent that brothers Martin and Laurie Ferguson voted against each other. Only the centre were relatively solid. The good aspect of all this is that those who voted against your leadership are rusted on loyal faction leaders and supporters who will now make sure that the new leader can count on their undivided loyalty. Beazley’s key numbers man Anthony Albanese said it all a few hours before the ballot: "Come what may in the ballot: The disloyalty must stop. " The decisive nature of the vote will ensure that now occurs. Your leadership is arguably the most powerful and unifed in terms of support since that of Bob Hawke. This is something to be nurtured.