Scott Morrison's bronze bust unveiled in Ballarat's Prime Ministers Avenue
Consensus Summary
Scott Morrison’s bronze bust was unveiled in Ballarat’s Prime Ministers Avenue on 2026-05-16, marking his inclusion as the 30th former prime minister in the historic collection established in 1940. Sculptor Martin Moore captured Morrison’s likeness during sittings, including one on his last day in parliament, though Morrison joked about losing weight since the measurements were taken. Both articles highlight Morrison’s reflection on the 'crushing' demands of the prime ministership and his gratitude to predecessors, including John Howard and Joe Lyons, for their leadership lessons. The SMH adds context about Morrison’s current work in international consultancies and his praise for Angus Taylor’s recent speech, while also noting a 2022 satirical coal bust incident that was later acquired by the Ballarat Art Gallery. The ABC focuses more on the artistic process and Morrison’s acknowledgment of the role’s challenges, emphasizing the avenue’s national significance.
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Key details reported by multiple sources:
- Scott Morrison's bronze bust was unveiled in Ballarat’s Prime Ministers Avenue on 2026-05-16, making him the 30th former prime minister memorialised there.
- The bust was created by sculptor Martin Moore, who took measurements during sittings with Morrison, including one on his last day in parliament.
- Morrison acknowledged he has 'shed a few pounds since back then' and attributed his current trim appearance to having 'a bit more time to have a bit more exercise' post-politics.
- The Prime Ministers Avenue tradition began in 1940 with the first six prime ministers' busts in Ballarat Botanical Gardens.
- Morrison referenced former PM John Howard’s advice that 'there is no ideology in a crisis, there is just fixing it and seeing your country through'.
- Morrison drew a parallel with Joe Lyons, a former Labor minister who switched parties and became PM, noting that 'very few political stories end well'.
Points of Difference
Details reported by only one source:
- A satirical coal-impregnated resin bust of Morrison created by Louise Pratt and Rob Beamish in 2022 was removed from the avenue but purchased by the Ballarat Art Gallery.
- Morrison declined to comment on the current political turmoil for the Liberal-Nationals Coalition in Canberra, stating he would 'leave those things to the politicians who are still serving'.
- Morrison praised Angus Taylor’s speech on 2026-05-15, calling his invitation to 'believe again' a good one and saying he shares the belief.
- Morrison mentioned his current work involves international consultancies and promoting the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal he championed as PM.
- Sculptor Martin Moore said he aimed to capture Morrison’s 'instantly recognisable grin' and was 'quite disappointed' Morrison was now 'looking quite trim'.
- Morrison described the PM role as 'crushing' and said the bust captures 'what it was like then'.
- Morrison thanked all former prime ministers for their 'sacrifice, wisdom, and lessons' taught to him.
Contradictions
Conflicting information between sources:
- The SMH mentions Morrison’s bust was unveiled on 2026-05-16, while the ABC article is dated 2026-05-15 but covers the same event, implying possible publication timing discrepancies.
Source Articles
Scott Morrison, slimmed-down man for all seasons, gets a new platform
“Very few political stories end well,” Scott Morrison said, as he enjoyed the unveiling of a bronze bust in Ballarat’s Avenue of Australian Prime Ministers on Friday.
Scott Morrison joins historic bronze collection in avenue of honour
A thinner ex-PM cracks jokes as his bust is revealed, making him the 30th Australian leader with a likeness in Ballarat's Prime Ministers Avenue.