Monique Ryan Discusses Labor's Parliamentary Setbacks and Josh Frydenberg's Potential Political Comeback

As the Australian political year draws to a close, the Albanese government still faces several unresolved issues. During the latest parliamentary sitting week, Labor encountered difficulties securing support for its proposed budget measure to cut private health insurance rebates for Australians aged over 65. Independent Kooyong MP Monique Ryan strongly opposed the proposal, arguing that the government has repeatedly found itself reacting to events rather than setting the agenda. In a conversation with political editor Tom McIlroy, Ryan also questioned the government's approach to introducing several major policy initiatives in parliament. Ryan also addressed speculation surrounding Josh Frydenberg, her former political opponent and treasurer under the Morrison government, who may be considering a return to federal politics following the launch of his memoir this week. This episode was updated on 19 October 2026. An earlier version referred to a proposal to raise the GST rate to 20%. Frydenberg has not advocated such a change.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.