Peter Costello – Where to from Here?

Peter Costello’s recent announcement (that he will not nominate for re-election as the Member for Higgins) has lain to rest speculation about his future in politics. So what’s next for Mr. Costello?

Peter Costello, born 14 August 1957, Melbourne. Birth time unknown. Sun sign: Leo

As I predicted last year, Peter Costello has finally announced his departure from politics. I made the observation that he should leave by the end of November, so why has he taken so long? Mr. Costello has a Sun-Pluto aspect that gives him a strong desire for recognition, as well as making him relatively stubborn and slow to change. Both he and John Howard are proud, stubborn, regal Leos – Howard wouldn’t let go and Costello wouldn’t contest the leadership. Most likely, had the leadership been handed to Costello in 2006 he would have won the election for the Liberals, but of course we’ll never know.

After the last election, Costello stayed on as a back-bencher, perhaps waiting for recognition that never materialised. But recent eclipses in January and February have brought the realisation that change was needed, and that it was time to start anew.
How will he choose to use his talents now?
At 51, Peter Costello has many good years ahead of him. The planets indicate that he will continue to work in public life and play a role in Australia’s future.

The next eclipse on 6th August is challenging for personal relationships. It also marks the beginning of a new partnership with the potential to heal the past. During 2009/2010, Costello’s progressed Sun and Jupiter join forces, bringing him renewed energy and enthusiasm and even greater rewards.

Around the 3rd week of August we will see him take on new responsibilities and be more productive. Plus, he is strongly influenced by a rare triple conjunction of Jupiter-Neptune-Chiron that compels him to focus on global concerns. This combination of planets supports his position on the International Advisory Board of the World Bank. His new role gives him the opportunity to work in finance on a global scale; a perfect outlet for his Sun-Pluto. The Sun rules vitality and self-expression, and Pluto rules power and large sums of money.

The triple conjunction may also expose the pain and disillusionment of the past but this will heal and improve over time. And an increase in family pressures and responsibilities brought on by Pluto and Uranus will force Peter to find a solution that addresses both his needs and those of his family.

By this time next year Mr. Costello will have so many offers he may not know which way to turn. He must guard against overstretching himself and taking on roles that require more energy than he has to give. And with Jupiter and Uranus opposing his natal Jupiter, there is the danger of becoming overconfident and stirring up opposition. Through compromise, care and restraint these influences will be converted into a more positive experience with the potential for financial gain.

If all goes to plan, by October 2013 Mr. Costello will be reaping the rewards of his hard work through professional recognition and the offer of a promotion. However, personal responsibilities and family concerns may see him decline the offer and reduce his work hours so he can spend more time at home.