Hail the chief

THE people behind the scenes in politics are often as interesting as those in front.

Credlin

THE people behind the scenes in politics are often as interesting as those in front.

And backroom machinations, almost without exception, are more fascinating than the politics played in public. Political fixers and staffers often prefer to stay out of the media, but Opposition leader Tony Abbott’s chief of staff Peta Credlin has such an aura of influence that writer Kate Legge decided to take a closer look. You probably haven’t heard of Credlin, although you may have noticed her shadowing Abbott, but what has emerged is the story of an intriguing woman - and definitely one to watch.