Julia Gillard calls Australia leadership ballot to end ‘once and for all’ rivalry with Kevin Rudd

“As the dysfunction in the government grew, I did everything humanly possible
to salvage the situation,” she said.

Without naming Mr Rudd, Ms Gillard said her 2010 election campaign was
“sabotaged” and that her leadership since then had been targeted by a
“long-running destabilisation campaign”.

Mr Rudd stopped short of announcing he would contest the ballot but said he
was “very pleased and encouraged” by displays of support by party
colleagues. He said the Labor party under Ms Gillard was facing defeat at
the next election, due in 2013.

“I have been shocked and disappointed by the tone and content of the
intensely personal attacks lodged at me overnight,” he said.

“This question of the future of the leadership of our party and our
country is not about personality. it’s about trust and it’s also about
policy and vision.”

Speaking in Washington DC, he said he would announce his intentions after
returning to Australia on Friday.

Mr Rudd’s wife, Therese Rein, praised his “courage and integrity”, saying he
had worked tirelessly for the nation. Asked about the personal attacks on Mr
Rudd, she said Australians “know the truth”.

Various ministers today voiced support for Ms Gillard and condemned Mr Rudd’s
leadership style.

The fact is he has been deliberately behind the scenes undermining the
important work of the government,” said the Treasurer, Wayne Swan.

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