How Abbott will check mate his critics

But such leaders need more than economic and social policies. They need narratives and they need salesmanship.

And this brings us to Joe Hockey. Or more correctly, the problem of Joe Hockey.

Simply put: regardless of whether he enthusiastically supported the government’s economic policies or objected to some or all, his task was to narrate and to sell. At best, he did neither. At worst, he did both. Badly. It’s that simple. It’s academic to dissect the reasons why he failed.

On Monday he wasn’t pushed out the door. And he certainly didn’t surrender his title. More’s the pity.

There is something seriously awry when conservative voters (let alone Labor supporters) haven’t got a clue just what the government’s vision for Australia is and what ideas the government believes is worth fighting for.

First, a vision must be agreed upon. And not just by the Prime Minister, his Chief of Staff and a couple of Yes Men. The tent where views are to be exchanged must be broad and must include backbenchers.

Second, once a vision is agreed upon, it must be articulated 24/7 by the Prime Minister and his cabinet colleagues at every opportunity they get, to everyone they meet.

Third, the narratives must simple, straightforward, optimistic and inclusive.

All parliamentarians, not just cabinet ministers must be fully appraised of the government’s strategy and must sell the government’s story.