Newly released Cabinet documents show divisions emerge in Hawke government
The release of new Cabinet documents have given a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the Hawke government 30 years ago.
In 1988, the Hawke Government was riding high in the polls, but newly released cabinet documents reveal internal divisions were starting to destroy one of Australia'Mr Hawke told 9NEWS that the feeling in Cabinet at the time was one of great satisfaction with its achievements.
"And that wasn't only our own assessment and judgement, it was universal acknowledgement by economists within Australia and externally that we had really, fundamentally changed the Australian economy for the better, to make it more efficient," he said.
"So there was a sense of satisfaction and pride, but also a clear understanding that we hadn't finished the job and there was still a lot to do."
The Hawke government was determined to see through all of its social and economic reforms.
Treasurer Paul Keating ran a tight ship, but world market factors came into play and softened the economy.
As a duo, Mr Hawke and Mr Keating were as brilliant as they were divided and tension over the leadership was growing.
In 1988 at Kirribilli House, Mr Hawke agreed in secret to hand over the leadership should Labor win a fourth term.
He later reneged.
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
