Betrayal: The Underbelly of Australian Labor

by Simon Benson

Award-winning journalist Simon Benson, exposes the betrayal by those at the very top of Australian politics in their brutal pursuit of power. This is no ordinary insiders’ book on politics. A fast-paced ride through the treacherous terrain of Australia’s political landscape, it is based on hundreds of hours of exclusive interviews with key players, giving readers disturbing insights into the character of some of Australia’s leaders. Covering the most significant upheaval in the recent history of the Australian Labor Party, and charting the political demise of a leader.

Genres: Politics

400 pages, Hardcover

First published June 18, 2010

Reviews

[Bernard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a surprise (and a great recommendation and loan from a colleague) and provided superb insight into the turmoil of the last days of the Iemma Government and the wrecking ball antics of NSW labor. The author correctly predicts the flow-on impacts this disaster would politically cascade onto federal labor under Rudd. All of the seeds of dissent, disloyalty, tail-wagging-the-dog and bloody-mindedness are prominent and enduring in what was to follow. I am an avid follower of Australian politics but was not properly well read or informed on this period in NSW. That was to my detriment but my ignorance did not dampen the experience of loving this read. Simon Benson does a masterful job of unravelling the secret deals and hidden agendas to bring you on the inside. I am really pleased to have been thoroughly immersed in this book.

[Daniel Lang · Rating 2 out of 5]

"Betrayal: The Underbelly of Australian Labor" by Simon Benson attempts to shed light on the internal workings of the Australian Labor Party, promising a deep exploration of betrayals within its ranks. However, the book falls short of delivering a truly insightful or compelling exposé, leaving readers with a sense of unmet expectations.

One of the notable shortcomings of the book is its reliance on sensationalism over substance. Benson's narrative often reads like a tabloid piece, emphasizing scandalous details without providing a nuanced understanding of the complex political landscape. This approach tends to overshadow the broader issues and policy discussions that are crucial to a comprehensive exploration of Australian politics.

The book's organization feels disjointed, lacking a clear and cohesive structure. While it attempts to cover a range of betrayals within the Labor Party, the transitions between different topics can be abrupt and disorienting. This lack of fluidity hampers the reader's ability to follow a coherent storyline, diminishing the overall impact of the book.

Benson's writing style occasionally leans towards an accusatory tone, which may alienate readers seeking a more balanced and objective analysis. The portrayal of political figures can come across as one-sided, with a focus on exposing betrayals rather than providing context or delving into the intricacies of the decisions made.

Moreover, the book doesn't delve deep enough into the motivations and internal dynamics that drive betrayals within the party. While it highlights instances of disloyalty, readers may find themselves craving a more profound exploration of the underlying factors that contribute to such betrayals in the complex world of Australian politics.

The lack of in-depth interviews with key players, coupled with a somewhat superficial treatment of events, diminishes the book's credibility. The absence of substantial insider perspectives or behind-the-scenes revelations leaves readers with a feeling that the book barely scratches the surface of the issues it aims to address.

In conclusion, "Betrayal: The Underbelly of Australian Labor" may appeal to those who enjoy political gossip and scandals, but it fails to deliver a substantive examination of the complexities within the Labor Party. Simon Benson's approach, which prioritizes sensationalism over insightful analysis, ultimately leaves readers with a book that lacks the depth and nuance required to be a truly illuminating exploration of the underbelly of Australian politics.

[Dirk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden gem of a political thriller, even for a far away reader in Europe who is delving into the exciting world of Australian politics.

Read it for the second time, now with a better knowledge of auspol after devouring some 90 books about it. It still is one of the best books written and lays bare the utter separation of the ALP and its voters, the complete take over by faceless men who haven’t held a normal job in their lifetime and wouldn’t know what it is to rule for the benefit of all.

[Kerry · Rating 3 out of 5]

The inside story on the dark side of Labor politics.
The faceless men unmasked!