CelebList
Malcolm Turnbull

Is Malcolm Turnbull A-List?

NoB

NoMalcolm Turnbull is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.

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Reached A-list in 2015

Became Prime Minister

Lost A-list status in 2018

Dropped to B tier — Ousted as PM

Ranking Timeline

1987C$5M

Founded Investment Bank

Turnbull co-founded Whitlam Turnbull & Co Ltd, an investment banking and corporate advisory firm. This early venture established his reputation in Australian business circles and began building his personal fortune.

1993C$30M+$25M

Sold OzEmail Stake

As a major investor in OzEmail, Australia's first commercial internet service provider, Turnbull made significant profits from its sale. This cemented his status as a wealthy businessman before entering politics.

2004C$80M+$50M

Entered Federal Parliament

Turnbull won the Liberal Party preselection and election for Wentworth, entering federal politics. His business wealth and legal background positioned him as a rising star in the Liberal Party.

2008B$100M+$20M

Became Liberal Leader

Turnbull won the Liberal Party leadership after defeating Brendan Nelson. His first stint as opposition leader was brief but raised his national profile significantly.

2009C$105M+$5M

Lost Liberal Leadership

Turnbull lost the leadership to Tony Abbott over climate policy disagreements. This setback temporarily diminished his political standing but his wealth remained intact.

2015A▲▲$150M+$45M

Became Prime Minister

Turnbull successfully challenged Abbott for the Liberal leadership and became Australia's 29th Prime Minister. This elevated him to household name status across Australia and internationally.

2017A$165M+$15M

Same-Sex Marriage Victory

Turnbull oversaw the successful postal survey and legalization of same-sex marriage in Australia. This was seen as a major achievement but also exposed divisions within his party.

2018B$170M+$5M

Ousted as PM

Turnbull was removed as Prime Minister and Liberal leader in a party room coup led by conservative MPs. He resigned from parliament shortly after, ending his political career.

2026B$180M+$10M

Post-Political Career and Advocacy

Turnbull remains active in public discourse on climate policy and political reform through media appearances and his memoir. He is well-known in Australia but no longer at the center of political power.

Last updated: February 25, 2026