Kevin Rudd’s respect for his predecessor was manifest in a poised victory speech. It was all very Tony Blair. Déjà vu recalls similar tributes to Margaret Thatcher’s role in Britain when Blair won office. As New Labour adopted so much of Thatcherism, we will watch the ALP endorse much of Howard’s policies.

Howard’s election night speech was brilliant, with equilibrium that has been a hallmark. He spoke of his Government’s delivery of more than a decade of prosperity to Australia yet took “full responsibility” for the loss.

Mr Howard should have perhaps quit on one of the two occasions he had particular opportunity. A great legacy now has a blemish, but it will only slightly deface the significance of his achievements. In reality, we will never know whether quitting would have made any difference to a country that just wanted change.

Mr Howard has however been spared a problem that is besetting key remaining colleagues. Politics is a barmy and unkind business at times. When the decision is made for you, it often has beneficial results. A new and exciting life is discovered. Enjoy it, Mr Howard.

Peter Costello has made the right decision in this regard. I was not surprised. While family and politics can thrive together, it is difficult to tolerate for decades. I hope Mr Costello departs before the next election to start his new career; after outstanding public service he should not be begrudged that opportunity.

Other Coalition stars stare at the dilemma that Mr Costello has confronted and Mr Howard has ironically avoided.

I worry a few of its best performers will make the wrong choice and remain in Parliament for longer than required. Despite years of unselfish public service, they may still want to go another full round or two. Kim Beazley is a great example of such political selflessness.

For starters, Alexander Downer and Nick Minchin could remain until at least 2010. I would suggest that after helping to steady the boat post defeat, say within six months, they should leave. I say this as a deep admirer of both.

Senator Minchin has contributed to Australia’s well-being as an outstanding Finance Minister just as Mr Downer has done more to assist Australia’s relevance on the international stage than any previous Minister. They have helped make Australia a better place.

While by-elections and Senate vacancies would create some inherent costs, new careers beckon for the likes of Mr Costello, Mr Downer, Senator Minchin and possibly others such as Helen Coonan. All are of immense value to corporate Australia. Despite this scenario, the best professional politicians often make the worst personal decisions.

Finally, much will be written about blame for this loss. What is the point? Mr Howard took “full responsibility” and it will serve little to reflect. Labor sought blame for years, forgetting about renewal. Mr Rudd told them to look forward, not back.

If anyone deserves criticism, look to Jackie Kelly and her camp. Antics from one of those who swept Mr Howard to power in 1996 made the difference that swept him out of Bennelong. While Labor has Joe McDonald, conservatives have their own members of the barking mad sect too.