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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
National
Amy Remeikis

Unfriendly fire: famous fights and sledges between Australian politicians supposedly on the same side

Composite image featuring Scott Morrison, Jeff Kennett, Julia Gillard, John Howard, Kevin Rudd and Julie Bishop
Some of the most vicious and memorable political moments have been from friendly fire: Jeff Kennett and John Howard (at top); Scott Morrison and Julie Bishop; Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd. Composite: The Guardian / Getty Images / Michael Dodge / EPA / Sam Mooy / AAP / Mick Tsikas

Think political sledges and, depending on your vintage, you probably picture Paul Keating in parliament stalking the Liberal opposition leader John Hewson, and promising to “do you slowly”.

But some of the most vicious and memorable political moments have been delivered through friendly fire. Faction v faction or just a personality clash, members allegedly on the same side have prompted some of Auspol’s more unforgettable spats.

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