Seize the Moment by Bernard Keane

At the first-quarter mark of the 21st century, giant forces are reshaping our world. This Trump Moment marks a turning point in history. So far, Australia has played its hand pretty well.

But beneath the military and economic conflicts grabbing the headlines, technological disruption is escalating; our population is ageing; the climate crisis is upon us; China is gathering power; and the US empire is retreating from its strategic role internationally and from democratic norms. In the face of these pressures, can Australia continue to be a lucky country?

Bernard Keane draws on his experience within government and as a political commentator to outline how Australia can prosper in the next quarter century. He argues we have crucial advantages we can leverage-if we make smart decisions now.

‘He challenges myths left, right and centre in his determination to shed light on what is actually happening in our politics – and what must change if we want Australia’s success to continue.’ Sean Kelly

‘A positive, and surprisingly optimistic, set of ideas for improving Australia’s political system.’ Alan Kohler

‘Seize the Moment provides the kind of new map that Australians need to navigate this new world disorder.’ Richard Denniss

‘With political and planetary temperatures rising, Keane reminds us that cooler heads might just prevail.’ Jack Toohey

Australia is surviving the second coming of Trump, but our economy and our social cohesion are under pressure, and our political landscape is being reshaped. How do we turn this time of international crisis into a launchpad for success?

About the Author: Bernard Keane has been Crikey’s Canberra correspondent since 2008, writing on politics, media and economics. He has also spent 15 years in the Australian public service. He is co-author of the bestselling A Short History of Stupid, and author of The Mess We’re In and a novel, Surveillance.

04 Aug 2026
 

Seize the Moment: Australia’s real opportunities in an unstable world by Bernard Keane ISBN 9781761473968