The opportunist

Plot

Third essay in the Quarterly Essay series. Investigates the impact of the Howard years on Australia. Examines the way in which the Prime Minister was able, on the eve of the 2001 Federal election, to turn his political fortunes around by spurning refugees and supporting America's 'War on Terrorism'. Author places John Howard within the context of the economic liberalism he shares with other liberal colleagues, but points out the social conservatism that sets him apart from more up-to-date liberals such as Jeff Kennett and Peter Costello. Author is the co-editor of 'Arena' magazine and writer of 'Your Dreaming'. Also includes correspondence about the previous essay in the series, 'Appeasing Jakarta', along with contributor notes.