Original subtitles

The headlines this morning talked of political death, the end of a prime

ministership. Prime Minister Bob Hawke is facing the toughest political battle

of his life.

Paul Keating, who has already failed once in a leadership challenge and said

wouldn't challenge again, has not gone away. Hour by hour, the people who voted

for Mr Hawke in the first leadership challenge are deserting him. With just

days before the Christmas adjournment, everyone in Canberra wants to know if

Paul Keating will challenge again. This question is quite literally crippling

the government.

This leadership thing has to be settled before Christmas so we can talk about

policy.

I don't think the Labour Party has got anywhere to move now because whether

Keating or Hawke, the Labour Party's finished.

Privately, all MPs agree it's no longer a question of whether Bob Hawke will

remain Prime Minister.

but how and when he goes.

Bob Hawke left the lodge this morning determined to battle on. He's always

declared himself no quitter, ready to fight against the odds.

It is understood that a private meeting between Bob Hawke and his closest

supporters, including Kim Beazley and Robert Ray, will be taking place today,

the hope that somehow this rift can be resolved.

Hey, Mikey, you back it? Sure did, boss.

18 to 1.

You should listen to the Prime Minister all the time.

I'm still waiting for you. How are you?

Morning, Friday, Dottie. I could delay them a few. You've done something

different. The hair, the shoes, the lippy.

Um, wearing a new perfume?

Probably. Probably should do it. Maybe for Vicky.

We think it's time to sit down.

What is this, a fucking intervention?

Look,

I know it hasn't been an easy year.

It's been intolerable.

Kitting forces are tearing us apart, limb from limb. Look, Gerry, we loathe

this bastard's doing to you, but we have to consider what's best for the party.

As of this morning, we're 900 ,000 out of work.

You don't think I know that. You could choose your own departure, sometime

New Year's Day when President Bush arrives to thank you. And be a bloody

duck.

That's what you're proposing I become as a king.

Look, I appreciate your loyalty.

All of you. Bob, you're tired.

You're not on top of your game.

I'm fine.

I have a rest over Christmas. I'll be fine.

Look, Paul told me he won't make a second challenge, and if he's not PM by

year, then he's walking. Oh, that's bullshit. Paul's not just going to sit

and... Look, even if he does decide to go, we'll be ready. You won't have the

numbers, Bob.

Then we'll get the numbers.

Jesus Christ, give me a bit of optimism here, fellas.

I'm not about to surrender. Not now.

Not ever.

He said over there. He said it.

Quiet, please.

Thanks, Jill.

Look, I just wanted to say, very briefly, don't worry.

How much I sincerely appreciate all your hard work and dedication in what's been

an absolute bastard of a year.

And while next year's bound to have its moments, one thing to me is crystal

clear. Australia still wants the Hawke government.

And in response to my well -publicised challenger... Thanks, Grutter.

Let me borrow the words of the Honourable Member, I forget who now, who

this eloquent message in this morning.

Couldn't have said it better myself.

Don't worry, folks, we're not going anywhere.

I've been through much worse than this.

Mr. Bob Horne. Make no mistake.

A ban on uranium mining would not only cripple industry, but shatter the

democracy of the trade union movement.

Well, let's talk about the workers whose lifeline you're willfully abolishing,

whose families you're crushing. Do you really want government troops taking

their job, commandeering the wharves and railways because of your insular, naive

prejudice?

Because that's what will happen. This industry will not be closed down.

There is simply no more important decision for us today.

This debate is about the kind of society, the kind of Australia we want

in.

Look, it was the right thing to do. It was the right thing to do.

Look, this was a victory for Kelty, too.

The little factory.

And Jeannie, my right arm.

Hell, it was everybody's win. Drinks all round.

Ten bucks.

Been a while since you shared, eh, Bob?

Eh? You asked me. It was a disaster.

Warren, right?

Land Council Darwin.

G'day, Mr. Hawke. Bob.

Don't think of anything as a loss, mate.

It's a victory waiting to happen.

Bill, a beer for Warren.

Check this out.

Isn't that gorgeous?

My dad loves you.

He's left his job. You're amazing.

Gee, thanks.

Isn't he, Parker?

He's got to meet me now.

I forgot to wear my undies.

How are you?

Yeah, I want you to catch me cold as you do.

Sorry, love. Change of plan.

Say g'day to your dad for me, all right?

She didn't mean to interrupt.

No, no.

You're a bloody vision.

No.

I just stopped by to give you this.

Thank you again. Oh, yeah.

Finny. It's great.

What are you drinking?

What do you believe in, Bob?

What ignites you?

I believe in equality.

Honour.

Rather would a man.

So where does that leave women?

Well, they certainly ignite me.

What about you?

You're not getting off that easy.

I want to know what's in your heart.

Your soul.

Dad was a preacher and There's no more beautiful man

alive, but I just can't conceive how God could allow so much devastation

heartbreak inequity And that

must be very lonely

Jean. Blanche.

How are you?

That better be room service.

Well, Hazel's been trying to find you.

It's your mother.

You made it.

How is she?

I had a bloody think after a strike.

She's still unconscious.

But the doctor, he thought we should prepare ourselves.

She may not make it through the night.

Then they clearly don't know, Mum.

Not clear.

What are you doing all the way over here?

You've got work to do.

How do you feel?

Oh, like I've been hit by a truck.

How are you?

Great.

The Prince of Peace.

Do you remember that?

I've always known what you would become.

Unto us a son is born, and the government shall be on his shoulders.

I've been a while. Well,

maybe not.

Bury the bottle.

I can feel it.

And I'll keep on praying.

I've got time, Bobby.

I'm not going anywhere yet.

I'll show them.

So will you, Bobby.

You show them.

really want to work here someday?

Not work, mate. Govern.

Let me just recap.

You expect Labor to dictate how much Mr and Mrs Jones take home every week.

Not their employers.

Ah.

With respect, Bill, you're missing the point.

If you can control wages, you can keep inflation down and improve living

standards.

I need to consider the next election.

So you'll need a solution. Something bold. Mate, this prices and incomes

is the free kick you need to get rid of Fraser once and for all.

You get the party on side, I'll wrangle the unions.

We'll do this together.

Well done with the pricks of telecom.

Victory for us all, Richo. How are you, Kim? Good to see you. How's the old man?

Oh, he's hating retirement, you know, but he can't sit still.

No man of purpose, Ken. I'll give him my best anyway.

Speaking of old men, there's our heavenly father now.

Good to see you, boys.

How are you, Bob?

Oh, g'day, Paul. How are you?

Let's get this deal signed off. We're going to party together.

Oh, Mr.

There's been a change of plans, Bob.

The factions simply won't wear it.

Guttless bastard.

Petrified to stand up to his own party, so he ratted me out.

That's why I'm here, to negotiate. He's not a leader, mate.

Labour's a joke.

If Whitlam fucking wasn't gut -wrenching enough, if you can't manage the

economy, you can't manage a bloody country.

You need to evolve.

Get a vision.

Fuck the past or the past will fuck you.

You want to put that on the record, Bob?

Oh, piss off, Freddy.

I'm not sure we can print that.

Go fuck yourself.

Print that.

All right, Bob.

Call it quits, eh?

Sleep it off. Come on, mate. Oh, here she is.

Here she is.

You're dead, mate.

You are dead. The party's dead.

Gee, thanks for that assessment, Bob.

You keep drinking, eh?

Oh, you want an assessment? I'll give you an assessment.

You are a lying cunt with a limited future.

There's your assessment.

How do you like that?

Get up here.

Oh,

mate. Let's get you up to your room.

Sorry, mate.

Do you have anything to say to Mr Hayden, sir?

Not today, fellas.

Hope they're paying you overtime.

They're saying your parliamentary future is over, sir.

That'll be all for today.

Thank you.

I just need a good feed and a back rub, don't I, Jeannie?

How are you, love?

How am I?

How Bob Hawke blew it.

Again.

He was exhausted.

Jean, could we just have one minute alone?

Oh, of course, sorry.

Well, that's the best bloody news I've heard all day.

Because I'm not running for Parliament.

Not now, not ever.

And it feels fantastic.

What?

It's ridiculous.

I'm making decisions every day for the national good.

For the world.

Changing lives.

The unions are the only way we're going to fight bloody apartheid.

And now we're finally welding the white collar groups with the blue. We'll

represent almost every worker in this country. Now that's more power than this

government could ever dream of. Why would I give that up?

He'll come to his senses when all this blows over.

strike other paint industry employees causing loss of production and loss of

wages. None of these actions was necessary.

They were totally disruptive.

They were selfish because they disregarded the hits done to other

So what am I supposed to do?

Hasn't got a bloody clue.

I'm talking about why I'm still here.

Heidel! It's been a big week, all right? I don't have time for long -winded

explanations.

What is

it?

It's one of many.

She gives a name, but there's times in here, there's dates in here, and this

is from a so -called friend just warning me and wondering how pathetic I could

possibly be.

It's just some crackpot probably sent by the bloody Tories. I'm not stupid.

I've known for years.

I know all about the writer.

But now you've just thrown in the towel without even so much as a conversation

and I'm wondering what the hell it is that we've been working towards.

Haven't I provided enough? Haven't I given you enough? When we started out,

had nothing.

Remember? Nothing. We had one mattress.

This is nothing.

You know, without the kids, my life is nothing.

I've been to see a divorce lawyer.

I want out.

All right.

Good.

Fine.

I've got plenty of other options.

So in your perfect world, if the unions restricting wage claims to CPI levels

can actually cooperate with the government... Free collective bargaining

still exist. They're not taking away democratic rights.

You're asking the workers to trust a government to act in the best interests

everyone. Yep.

Absolutely.

And people will come to realise that reconciliation is the only way to fix

country.

Well, that depends on who's in charge.

Oh, it's the technicality.

Dalpugee.

Dalpugee.

You have to go.

Marry me.

I'm serious.

My kids are off living their own lives.

It's obviously over with Hazel. It has been for years.

You're clearly not too thrilled to be the only fella I know.

Bob, I know I'm not the only one. I love you.

You love me?

Why shouldn't you be this bloody happy all the time?

Where did we first meet?

Oh, bugger.

Give us a sec, fellas.

Look, I know this, isn't it?

Fairy tale.

Propose what you deserve.

I need to talk to you inside.

Relax. Have a drink.

Oh.

Your dad's coming.

But first to Canberra, and it seems everybody has told everybody else that

Hawke is finished.

But apparently no one's told the Prime Minister, and if they have, he certainly

hasn't listened.

Kim Beazley would not disclose what the Six had put to the Prime Minister, but

said all conceivable options had been canvassed. A sign that his departure was

one of them. He did concede the possibility of another challenge to Mr

but wouldn't discuss the numbers in court.

Thought you'd be up.

How are you?

Yeah, good, good.

You? Fine, yeah.

Well, as well as you can be when you haven't slept in a week.

Ah, no good.

You've got to give up the coffee.

That's what I did.

Well, not being able to shut off the brain, that's my problem.

You've got to wipe the bad from your mind.

Like flicking a switch, as my mum used to say.

It's going to be a big Christmas.

You've got the whole family descending.

Son -in -law's parents coming out from Belgium.

They might bring some of those waffles with them.

Bob, I really think that you ought to stand down.

We might grab a boat and...

Head up to Hawkesbury. You ever been up there? It's bloody magic.

Paul will challenge.

He will, and I honestly don't think he'll have the numbers. Look, you don't

deserve this.

Not like this.

These bastards coming up, they're forgetting everything that you've done.

And you've achieved more than any of us thought possible.

This is your last chance to go out with dignity.

There's no dignity in surrendering.

It's not not.

Well, then you need to know that in a few days,

the party's likely to dump you.

Well, that's what the caucus wants, so be it.

What about Eisel?

Is that what she wants?

Is that what some others are saying?

What are you talking about?

That even she thinks it's time for you to go. Oh, that's bullshit.

Where are you getting that?

It's what I've heard. Well, it's a bloody lie.

Bob.

Bob. Hazel.

Bob.

Hazel.

Wake up.

Hazel.

Kim's been telling me that you've been... What are you... Kid, come in

What is going on? Do you or do you not think that I should stay and fight?

Is that what this is about? Just answer the question.

Of course I do.

I'm 100 % behind you. You know that.

Good.

Good.

You want my opinion?

I'm not a politician.

You're a unionist.

Firebrand.

In line to lead the ILO?

The workers of the world?

What more could you want from me?

I've offered me a seat.

Bob, I love you as a brother. But you're too emotional.

Too raw.

Your body factions will destroy you.

What about your behavior?

The drinking?

I've cleaned myself up. I've told you that.

I would never embarrass the country if they're later.

What if you don't get the leadership?

What if you don't win?

What a squander, your talents.

You're sitting impotent on the backbench.

Don't do this.

Roast chicken, coleslaw.

Do you buy your own dinner?

Uh, genuinely.

You hungry?

No, beaten.

Welfare studies.

It's my first day today.

And it did happen.

Yeah, it's something that I've always wanted to do, and I wasn't even the

one there, so...

Good on you, love.

I've decided to run a theatre will in

Coburg. It's a big Italian population.

I've always wanted to learn the language, so... Well, all

gory.

Congratulations.

So, uh... I'm going to need you with me.

Like we planned.

First lady of the best bloody country in the world.

It's not a bad result, is it?

We'll see.

I'm giving up the grog, Hazel.

No, no, Bob.

You can't just call me now and say this.

We need to meet.

That's for the bed.

I'm sorry.

I've left my husband.

I'm waiting for you.

What did they say it'd cost you?

Everything's all right.

How's London, Bob?

How are you, Bob? Well done to the people of Will.

Bob Hawke's new home.

Buongiorno! How does it feel to finally have a seat in Parliament?

Well, they're scarcer than hen's teeth, I tell you.

And look, we should get a few snaps of my brave opponent here, Gerry Hand.

Ladies and gentlemen, try to hear the last of Gerry Hand.

This is a

marvellous spot, Jenny.

Grassroots Australia.

Never thought I'd say it, though.

Roll on, Canberra.

Oh, shit.

You're a thive, Laura, aren't you?

Relax. I'm only here because... I have an idea.

You've got to be bloody joking.

Isn't there enough written about you already? About us?

Nothing warts and all.

What do they want?

Drunken brawls, your affairs?

Perhaps they'd like what your family really think of you.

You can't fool the public, Hazel. And if they don't hear it from me, they'll

hear it from the bloody Tories.

Couldn't shift that way a couple of inches, could you, love? So I get no say

this at all.

Who's writing it, anyway?

No. No way. She'll do a good job. She's a good rider.

I don't want anything to do with her.

Oh, it's bullshit.

My mates wouldn't say this.

I... It makes me sound like a raging, lecherous beat.

I'm not ignoring the national wage cases you've won, your defence of Israel,

objection to the Springbok rugby tour, but yes, loathsome drunk was a common

phrase.

This was always going to be confrontational.

Oh, well, you're the writer.

Have you spoken to Hazel yet?

We have a date in the diary.

It'll be fine.

After all, she won.

I'm sorry.

I never thought you'd want to see me again, you know.

Let alone all this.

Last time you were talking about your brother's death.

The added expectation that that placed on you.

What do you think?

The colour of consensus?

Yeah, very smart.

I've given up the grog, Bill.

For good.

Good on you.

Fingers crossed.

Oh, bloody hell.

It's not exactly bald, is it?

Seen he picked it out. Yeah, then I really like it now look You're gonna

Canberra Come on, hey, I could really do with your help Jeannie's coming.

Hey, look, I'd love to Bob Family first, you know how it is Blanche

we better

I'm probably early. Sorry.

Just to be clear, I've only agreed to do this for Bob.

Look at the bloody, bloody Carmen house.

In this place, we're probably unionised. They condemned the whole building. Come

on, it just adds to the charm. And anyway, we're finally here.

Yeah, it's great. Look, there's another one.

Jesus, we need more rubbish bins. There you go.

Oh, that's not getting very far.

How often do I get their bloody knickers in a knot? Good morning, Mr

Hortstopper. Bob, this is fucking gold.

You seen this? It's streets ahead of Hayden, 49 % to 31%. What can I say,

fellas? The people have spoken.

Bill, I just want to say how much I appreciate your willingness to bury the

hatchet, as it were.

It's been a real pleasure working with you.

Passed it.

You're handing me your resignation, are you, Bob? Yeah, goodbye.

No, it's just the polls. I mean, it's overwhelming.

And if we're going to have the best chance of winning this next election.

Well, now I really have seen everything.

You seriously think you can just walk in here all puffed up and demand my job?

Mate, I'm not... waltzing in anyway. You can go and get fucked, to use your

language.

Bill, I don't see what the surprise is here. We had an agreement. If you didn't

win this year, you'd step aside.

I said I'd reconsider my position, and now I have.

The Labor Party hasn't looked this good for 25 years.

We've made up all the ground that Gough lost. And you're still bloody lost.

Get out of my office.

What do you expect?

You did call him a lying CEO next Tuesday. Oh, look, I apologise for that,

you know, how can you ignore public opinion?

I'll tell you, mate.

If there's one grenade you need to blow up Hayden, it's Paul.

Keating, our faction leader, is convinced he's Hayden's successor, by

and that you're a Johnny -come -lately.

But the man has muscle, and where the New South Wales right go, the other

bastards follow.

Mr. Keating, hello. I'm Jean Sinclair. I'm Mr. Hawkins. Where is he, love?

National reconciliation.

The only way.

If we can stitch up this deal between the party and the unions, it'll

end industrial disputes as we know them.

Think about what that'll mean for living standards and the social wage of every

Australian.

And, mate, if we can do that...

We can rebuild the entire economy, deregulate the markets, open Australia

the world. Because I tell you what, Paul, this country is dying.

And if we don't do something now, we're going to end up the poor white trash of

Asia.

I don't disagree with what you're saying, Bob.

But I know what your Victorian mates are plotting, and I want none of it.

Look, you fancy yourself in the job.

And that's a worthy desire.

I've been in Parliament 13 years.

You've been here five minutes.

I haven't tilled the soil all this time for nothing. But what I'm offering you

is the chance to win. For Labor to actually fucking win.

Now we both know you haven't got the numbers yourself.

No one knows who you are yet. How old are you?

31, 32?

37. I'm going to be 51 in a couple of weeks.

Now, I'm not going to be in the job forever.

Two terms should do me.

Now, we can do a hell of a lot in six years.

Then, with Australia reconciled, Labor stronger than ever,

it'll be all yours.

Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. Blanche Delfuge.

Big up, fellas.

We've got more booze to go around these days, you know.

Well done.

What do you think's bigger than war and peace?

I think I've finally sweated you out of my... Definitely the most

thoughtful parting gift I've ever received.

I thought about buying a gun at one point and shooting you.

May it be more civilised.

This is the right thing.

You're going to make it, I know it.

I'm hearting words.

Well,

certainly my behaviour has caused my family, in particular, a lot of hurt.

I firmly believe that Australians have the right to know exactly who they're

being asked to vote for.

Good fucking answer.

Mate, they love him.

The books are selling out. They're writing songs about him. He should host

own bloody game show.

Hayden's often been his pseudo -treasure.

Take it.

Unless you want to spend eternity in opposition, this is our man.

Fraser knows it.

That's why he wants an early election. He's terrified of running against Bob.

Mate, we have to move now.

I now believe that the New South Wales members will take the view that the best

interest of the party will best be served by Bob Hawke becoming leader.

about Mr Hayden, sir?

And it is with the greater interest of the party in mind that I have decided to

resign my position as leader.

Bill and I need to talk.

Bob, you can stay. Everyone else.

I need your word.

There's to be no bloody backlash against my supporters.

Of course not, Bill.

You've done an extremely courageous thing, mate. Don't you dare patronise me

after sticking the knife in.

I sent everybody out.

I thought you might like to know, Fraser's been to see the Governor

He's called an election March 5th.

Unbelievable. I'd be bloody kidding.

Wait till he hears about this.

I know, he's trying to catch us with our pants down. Yeah, he's up against the

bloody Messiah.

Bloody beauty.

War in 31 days.

This is a fight for our future.

After seven years of Fraserism, we have the highest unemployment rate since

the Great Depression, the highest taxation level, the highest interest

Your choice is nothing less than a judgment about the very nature of

the kind of Australia that you want for yourselves and for the children of

Australia.

I will win, pal.

When you're ready.

Prime Minister.

We did it.

We bloody did it. We bloody did it.

And so it came to be.

What a gift.

Give us a chance to best relive this surprise fucking $9 .6 billion deficit.

Good timing. You can tell him yourself.

Prime Minister, I'm afraid there's a problem with the summit's venue.

What do you mean? It's in the chamber.

It's only placed big enough.

Unfortunately, sir, that's not an option. The public is simply not allowed

the house.

I have the greatest pleasure in welcoming all the participants to

this historic National Economic Summit, not only on behalf of the government but

on behalf of the people of Australia.

sacks anyone for not turning up today is a bum.

We have decided to float the Australian dollar on international markets,

removing existing exchange controls and thereby opening opportunity for foreign

investment. We've already created over 200 ,000 jobs.

The Prime Minister's approval rating has hit an all -time high.

Mr 75 % is what they're now calling it.

Plenty more where that came from too, love.

The Mahatis taking South Africa off the agenda.

Steady from Broome for the Canberra winters.

From today's avalanche of hand mail. Have to send her a nice car.

Presumably concerned about damaging trade relations.

Well, apartheid's going right back in. It's the first thing we're discussing.

What time's this dinner, Jill?

Seven, and you've only got a few minutes with Hazel, I'm afraid.

Hazel? She's in Melbourne.

She's in your office.

She made an appointment.

What's going on, love? Just couldn't wait any longer. I think you should sit

down.

Rose isn't well.

And the doctor opened her up after the, um... before the seizure.

He's just... I think... He was amazed that the

baby survived.

You mean... She...

And, I mean, I knew that something could... Well, he just wouldn't talk to

about it, and, you know, not to be minded.

Easy for her with her schedule.

Heroin, what are you... What are you thinking?

She's still in hospital.

She's with her.

Sorry, sir, the Malaysian Prime Minister is... Just a minute, Jill.

I thought she was, you know, I thought she was over with all the

experimentation.

She's only 38 kilos.

If she doesn't stop using, she'll die.

You can definitely do that while you're here. It's been a thought. And here he

is.

Dr. Mahart here.

You're looking well, my friend.

Shakespeare,

I hear, is excluded.

Bard.

Six letters.

Yeah, Bard. B -A -R -R -E -D.

The additives are finally working.

She's taking the boys.

Get the kitchen to fix you something?

I don't understand it.

What?

The kids do this, or did your kid do this?

We, as a family, we... We'll

come at the time, yes.

We'll come.

But we're a long way from happy.

There was a call.

It's the toll of the world.

Oh, Jesus.

Oh,

my God.

Oh, Jesus.

It's all right.

Bob, did you hear that?

Bob.

This is impossible.

If we want Martyr's backing, we've got to cut him some slack.

I let them walk all over us.

We need to hold firm on this.

We need Malaysia as a trading partner. That's what we bloody need.

Okay, moving on. With all due respect, Bob, you're missing the point here

entirely. You want to talk about diplomacy, Bill?

What were you thinking, using the ANZUS alliance as a deal -breaker with the US?

Mate, if you want to go home... Ah, I've still got to deal with this shit the

opposition's throwing at me. You have every right to shut down the Royal

Commission, mate.

Costigan was losing to Trump.

It was taking forever.

How much money were we burning up every day?

Peacock calling me a crook.

Saying I take orders from criminals.

Mate, he's a desperate man leading a dying party.

And him saying that about you? I'll fucking bury him.

Prime Minister, do you intend to take legal action against Mr Peacock? I hope

that the opposition leader will have the honour and the decency to retract his

comments.

in public life, you cannot entirely abandon the right to privacy because

not only a matter affecting yourself.

Were you upset about the story regarding your daughter's arrest for possession

of marijuana?

You don't seem to be a father.

I love my daughter and I trust her.

My wife and my children have a right to be protected.

I looked a lot like Steve.

Same cheeky little face.

Oh.

Peacock saying it's inappropriate for a leader to cry.

Unbelievable.

I'm going to do that interview.

I'll clear the deck, set the record straight.

Don't you focus on your job?

Hmm?

I can't let him focus on his job.

Well, it was devastating, obviously.

I think that anyone who's a parent at this time of

young children is constantly fearful that something like this might happen.

So that was the reason Mr Hawke's tears last week?

Oh, it was.

I don't know why I've done any of this.

Achieved nothing.

What you've achieved isn't nothing.

What about my kids?

You know, my son changed his name to avoid comparison to me.

Never forgave me for backing uranium mining.

I have this beautiful family I never see. Yeah, your kids are a mess.

And you've got every reason to feel miserable. But you know what? Stop

about.

Do something about it.

You need to pull yourself together.

Ros is already booked into the best clinic in the world and all she needs to

know is that you're there for her.

And if your son has stopped calling you, then pick up the bloody phone.

You're here for a reason.

I truly believe that.

And we've got an election to win, so start picking up the pieces.

Please don't kill your grandpa.

Poor old grandpa.

How are you?

Great, thanks. Go on, Kim.

Come on.

Go on, kids.

Grandma might give you a pedal pop if you're good.

There.

Copping a beating by the looks of it.

Just won 200 bucks at Randwick, though.

Lucky fucker.

No, luck, it's all skill, mate. It's all skill.

So how are you?

Another fun week by the sounds of it.

Oh, yeah, usual stuff.

You and Hazel ready for the big trip?

You betcha.

South Africa top of the agenda.

So it should be.

The violence is only getting worse. The whole country's a disaster.

It is indeed.

Which is why I'm going to shut it down.

Again, with the exception of Brit Chogham, adopted a proposal by Mr Hawke

independent study on South Africa's relations with international financial

markets. By their own admission.

The trade nations are hurting.

Billions of dollars of assets are lying stockpiled on their docks, but we have

to go further.

I propose that we act now to mobilise the international investment community

withdraw their funds directly from South Africa, to strangle the very heart of

this hateful region.

Look at the plaque.

They work apart.

90 % Australian material.

Yeah, I know.

1 .1 billion out of the coffers.

Oh, that's your domain.

Actually, Bob, I've been waiting for a chance to have a chat.

I think I've been pretty patient. I think you'll agree. Three terms down.

More than we thought.

Well, listen, I've never laid down a definitive.

Time frame, Paul. No, you didn't.

1980 Boulevard Hotel, two terms should do. We had an agreement.

Now, I've been pulling more than my weight. I think we both know that.

What the fuck are you talking about?

We had an agreement. There was no agreement. This job's not about taking

Paul.

Irrespective of what I felt then, this is now.

And I still have plenty of work to do.

Mate, if you think I'm going to stick around here forever as your handmaiden

grinding myself into an early fucking grave, you are sadly mistaken.

I'll be off to Europe.

Is that a threat, Paul?

Oh, well, if you think me leaving politics altogether is a threat, then I

it is.

You've always known which way I was sailing, mate.

If there's no island on the horizon... All right, look, look.

I appreciate all the work you're doing.

You're an outstanding treasurer.

And I've said so repeatedly.

The economy's bouncing back.

The next budget's going to bring home the bacon, as you so colourfully put it.

We're in good shape.

Give me a little time to mull things over.

that the Prime Minister is doing everything he can to keep his head above

And when asked if Bob Hawke was still going to be Prime Minister by Christmas

time, Hawke had this to say.

Look, let me make this quite plain.

I've said in the past and I'll repeat it again.

I will not be challenging the Prime Minister. I'm the only one who can say

whether I'm contemplating any challenge to the existing leadership to the Prime

Minister. And I'm not.

What are you going to do?

Well, not rolling over, if that's what you're thinking.

Of course not.

How much more of this can you take?

Paul's never going to win. He doesn't love this country.

And the people know it.

And I know I can.

Under very snazzy.

Boss, I hate to ruin your evening, mate, but there's a transcript you need to

have a look at.

Now, whoever taped this is now trying to peddle it off to the press, keeping to

Richo from his car phone after you called him replaceable on national TV.

Calling me an envious little prick, that I undermined your budget, just like you

single -handedly resurrected the economy. You opposed me floating the

remember? Now everything's your fucking idea.

Grow up, you selfish, two -faced, shallow, bloodless turd!

He's, uh, just winding up.

You can't afford to lose me, and I'm not going to stay beyond next year without

a clear agreement.

What do you think this job's really about, Paul?

Chairing the Cabinet?

Delittling the opposition at question time?

It takes years in office to build up the contacts, the international trust that

I have to really make a difference globally. And that's what's ahead of me

Why are you ignoring the troops back home? You're not nourishing us, Bob.

You're not looting the party. That's the first idea about leadership, Paul. A

leader needs to empower his cabinet to let them flourish, to show them a

of respect.

Then why do they resent you?

Even Dawkins, the man you thought could replace me as treasurer, wants you gone.

The Libs aren't as weak as you might think, mate. We might win a fourth term,

just.

But after 93, we're in never -never land. So you just want your go, do you,

Paul?

Before this lucky strike we're having comes to an end, is that what you're

after?

I want what I've prepared my whole life for.

And we need a pact.

And this time I want witnesses.

Are you sure about this?

Hey, fellas.

Bill. How are you, Bob?

Been a while. You looking good?

Don't know about that.

Cup of tea?

Yeah, be nice. Oh, this doesn't ever take long.

Right on.

It's a beautiful spot, isn't it, Kirribilli?

Best spot in the world, mate.

You know what it means, Kirribilli, the Aboriginal origin?

Good fishing spot.

They got that right, didn't they?

So.

So.

Resuming I win 1990.

conditional on a caucus vote, I will at some stage step down during that term.

Two more years.

I should be able to endure that.

You might want to take a bit more interest in sport.

Australians love their sport.

I just don't know whether Empire Clocks and fancy suits is going to do it for

them, Paul.

Know what I mean?

I think we're done here.

Well, it was fairly painless, wasn't it?

There's one condition.

If the details of this deal are made public, it's all off.

Understood?

Understood.

Hello? Hi Blanche.

It's your friend from Jakarta.

It was 1970.

There I was at a friend's party, sitting on the balcony, drinking some strange

Indonesian beer.

Went up the drive, walked, this vision, the most...

and you never even ask my name.

That's the first time we met.

And bloody tastic.

Hi.

Right. Well, I'll be in the bathroom with my Walkman.

Good on you, Grutter. You're a legend.

Six years, eh?

Look, Bob, I'm sorry. I'm sorry about the charade. It's just that, you know,

press was like...

Sniffer dogs. Not that I'm expecting anything. I know they're the last thing

want.

After the closest federal election in three decades, Bob Hawke says he's

confident Labour will be able to govern in its own right. Labour has scraped

back despite its worst performance since its 1975 disaster.

It is clear to us now that Labour has won the election and I congratulate Mr

Hawke on his success.

Knocked the peacock off his perch.

All feathers and no meat, Paul.

It was a good line, wasn't it?

Green vote's over, say?

Told you, mate. Australians love their nature.

Yeah, not what you were saying about Antarctica, though, was it?

Well, it's not a domestic issue.

If we don't sign this mining strategy, we'll be the laughingstock of the world.

Last pristine continent on Earth and you're worried about keeping up

I'm staying well out of this one.

Anyway, good result.

Yeah, look, mate, um, just wanted to raise my hand for transport and

communication.

I think I've earned my stripes in environment.

Sorry, Graeme, I've already promised it to Kim.

Hmm.

Well, then, what about defence?

Mate, Robert, the heavyweight there, and, you know, and that's what we need

right now.

I want to talk about this later.

It's all right.

powerful force in the Middle East swept across Kuwait's borders at first light.

If Iraqi forces fail to make a full and unconditional withdrawal from Kuwait to

release all hostages by 15 January 1991, the States of the United Nations will

be authorised to use all necessary means to achieve that end.

As I've already outlined, Australia will make our naval task force available to

serve with Allied forces.

The operation is authorised by Resolution 678 that we come in.

Prime Minister, would you care to respond to the treasurer's comment about

leadership at the Press Club last night?

I'm unaware of any such comments.

Thank you, that's all.

What the fuck was that all about?

Denigrating Labour's greatest, John Curtin, as a trier.

Calling yourself the only capable leader, the fucking Placido Domingo of

Australian politics. Do you want to give me a second here, Bob?

Leadership is not about being popular. It's more than tripping over TV cords in

shopping centres.

This is a new low, even for you.

It was off the record, yeah? And I wasn't talking about you directly.

Oh, don't insult my intelligence.

You have never understood my bond with the Australian people, and you clearly

never will. Oh, the great love affair, yeah? How could I forget?

We're in the middle of a fucking war.

Christ almighty.

Or weren't we paying you enough attention?

A friend of mine had just died.

He'd given his life to politics. I was in a reflective mood.

Right.

So you thought you'd tear yourself up by scarring my place in history.

You don't need my help to do that, Bob.

You selfish prick.

Look, mate.

Things are pretty dire in case you hadn't noticed. The caucus has

People are talking about walking if you're still here next year, and every

single financial forecaster is saying we're diving headfirst into the most

deadly recession in 60 years, and you're ignoring everyone.

No one can get through to you. You're the fucking treasurer!

You're the one who promised us the soft bloody landing, the smell of bacon.

Do you seriously think that Australians, all those people now desperately

searching for jobs, closing their businesses, losing their homes, are

want you running their country?

You are.

Such a long way from being ready to do this job that I tell you what, mate, our

pact is seriously in doubt.

You will pick a date.

And you will stand down.

Or I promise you, I won't be here another second plugging up your mistakes

this arse into the world.

What did you just say?

What did you just say?

Is that what you think of the country you hope to run? This is bullshit.

I just want one thing from you.

To keep your word.

That's it.

She's a... Jill!

Jill! Will somebody help me?

She's a shoddy crap.

Prime Minister of the nation. They can't give me a bloody machine that works.

Donny's taped a thing on the wall for me.

I think you'll find it has an arrow.

Oh,

Jane.

You're not going to set off the fire alarm again?

Look. It's my bloody office. If they don't like it, they can wear gas masks.

I know my timing leaves a bit to be desired, but, um...

I may have to take some leave quite soon.

Like hell you will.

Sort of cancer, Janie.

I'm sorry, Bob.

I'm... No.

Anyway, the... The office is running like clockwork. No, no, no. Listen,

whatever it is, come on, whatever it is, we're going to get you through it.

Pops, she's a fighter.

And with all the treatment... No, no, it's... It's a matter of months. I've

her.

The war was over, for one. Not one Australian casualty.

When all this is over, how do you think they're going to remember me?

As you are.

As a man who loved his country, and whose country loved him in return.

You did it despite the U .S. and the Brits. We did it.

No one can touch Antarctica for 50 years.

Even then they'll have Buckley's child overturning it.

Sorry, sir. The rainbow warrior himself.

Hear the news?

Kim, give us the room, would you?

I know about the pact.

And despite my thoughts on treating the national leadership like a fucking

frisbee, I need to know if you're going to honour it.

Look.

Graham, if you didn't get the portfolio you want, I'm sorry.

I don't give a crap about that anymore, Bob.

Vengeance is tiring.

I just need to know.

Paul's speech was treachery.

He has proven to me that he is incapable of leadership.

That's all bullshit.

He could be the devil incarnate. You made a deal. Oh, fuck the deal, Graham.

He will set us back ten years. He will undermine everything I've achieved.

this government's already dead.

Civil war has to end.

Are you going to stand down?

And I promise you, if you break your word, this whole sorry saga will be

page news.

Today, more news of Hawke supporters jumping ship. With only one day before

Christmas adjournment, the pressure is mounting on Mr Hawke. All of Mr

supporters are in Canberra and it appears a challenge is imminent.

Head counters are now admitting further erosion in the Prime Minister's support.

They concede Paul Keating could have as many as 50 of the 56 votes he's needing

for his top of his private.

Very nice.

Ah, my young assassin.

How are you? G'day, Bob. Ready for battle tomorrow, if it happens.

Well, look, hopefully no need. I notice Paul hasn't shown up here tonight. Must

be busy stuffing his Christmas stocking for me.

Seriously, though, mate, I really appreciate this.

Bob, there's something going on.

Robert and Jerry are back at the office. How soon can you get there?

Keating's entire army is here, and if they've got a challenge, they'll need to

get a third of the party signed up tonight.

That's obviously enough to force a public show -and -tell without your

I'm trying to go on to Richard to find out, but personally, it's a dirty way to

go. You think we're still short?

Gareth's still stuck in Jakarta, and Keating's sure as shit not going to even

the numbers for him.

And as of five minutes ago, the left are no longer voting in line with every man

for himself.

Three or four waivers as a result, they can certainly do with some personal

attention, Bob.

I'm not saying we haven't made mistakes, but I know what we need to do.

We've got the new job strategy ready to go.

All right, mate. I appreciate it. Good.

I knew I could count on you.

Tell the missus I'm sorry I woke her.

What's happening?

Oh, he lied.

Our advice, Bob, instead of this factional chant, Phil... Beat him to it.

Call a meeting first thing.

declare my position vacant to make way for a clean secret ballot to take place

at the end of the day.

That'd be our advice, yeah.

You know what Nelson Mandela said to me, sitting in that chair, after thanking

us for our help?

He said he found it impossible to hate his oppressors, even after 27 years

behind bars, because he knew his responsibility was to focus on

action.

Sir, I have the ATT present for you.

Good, Jill.

Could you bring us some coffee, please?

We've got some work to do.

Tell me you've got this, please.

How are you, love?

I'm fine.

Nah, just thinking about the old panther.

How much mum hated that motorbike, remember?

We'd escape up to the beach, get lost in the sand dunes,

dreaming about one day.

And here we are.

In a moment, Bob Hawke will formally resign as Prime Minister after nearly

years in the job, Labour's longest -serving Prime Minister and second only

Menzies in Australian history.

Right now, the last of 107 Labour caucus members are filing into the ALP party

room near the House of Representatives, including, well, Foreign Minister Gareth

Evans.

You're the luckiest man I know.

Is anything possible?

Prime Minister, they're ready.

Hello, comrades.

Destiny awaits.

I cannot stress enough how critical the

1993 election is.

Not just for this party, but for the future of the country.

And I firmly believe that I have the best chance of ensuring its victory.

With that said, I now tender my resignation as leader and nominate

bacon seat.

Thank you, Prime Minister.

Are there any further nominations?

Yes, Jim.

I would also like to nominate myself as a candidate.

If you can now please form a line.

On the other side of the partition, we have cubicles set up for you.

Please mark your preference clearly and place your vote in the box provided.

I'll tell you mine if you show me yours.

Tonight,

we're waiting on the ballot.

which will determine whether Bob Hawke will remain Prime Minister or whether

Paul Keating will replace him. Of course, right through the day, there's

let -up in the vehemence argument from both camps, particularly amongst

backbenchers.

Of the 107 ballot papers I received, the winner, with 56 votes

to 51, is Paul Keating.

Congratulations, Paul.

The government will have my complaints.

Thank you both. Thanks. I've got some pictures to fill.

Prime Minister, is there something you need?

No.

She would have given anything to be here with you this week.

It's me.

Oh, so close.

Only a few votes.

Oh, well, it's all over now.

All behind us.

You're amazing.

Oh, everyone's shattered, devastated.

Except you.

You take care of yourself, okay?

So I extend to all honourable members my very best wishes for a happy and safe

Christmas.

I'd also like to take this opportunity to thank my able, very well liked,

indeed loved, Leader of the House.

Let me say, Mr Speaker, I have no hesitation in declaring my love for him.

Kim's a very special sort of bloke. His advice is invariably sound.

His good spirits and enthusiasm for the parliamentary process are infectious.

And least but not last, he makes us all look well -dressed.

Bring the buggers to order, Mr Speaker.

And finally, as this will be my last... speech in this chamber as Prime

Minister, I'd like to thank my tremendous staff,

my ministerial colleagues and those of my party who have

accorded me the privilege of leading this party, this government

and this great country over the last nine years.

It is impossible for me to...

tell you what pride I feel that you have given me that opportunity and I thank

you most.