Capturing those outside the legitimate economy has been but a dream for Treasurers of all persuasions. Now it comes true. The superstar of the crisis is Josh Frydenberg, who cannot believe his good fortune. Never waste a crisis, indeed. Last year he barely had time to get his feet under the desk when he had to deliver what everyone – including he – thought was an outgoing government budget. Now he gets to play the pivotal role in the greatest challenge of a generation.

And it turns out that the Treasurer has been remarkably good at it. Together with Senator Matthias Cormann and the ATO boss Steve Kennedy, the group chaired by Prime Minister Scott Morrison has come up with a package that saves us from disaster. It puts a floor under the market in exactly the same way Kevin Rudd did with the banks in the global financial crisis. It restores confidence – we are not all doomed. Our government will not stand passively watching. It is alongside us. Panic sackings and panic resignations paused.

And it is working. The unions even like it! The end of tribalism? Don’t believe it, but the many strange yet strong relationships being forged through this crisis will be of lasting and enduring benefit long after the emergency.

And it must be a delight when Premiers and Treasurers sit down with federal counterparts and talk about how much money will be handed over instead of how much will be squeezed. Not surprising to see heroic outbreaks of unimaginable harmony.

Attention is already turning to the best way to manage the awakening of the economy. It cannot go from zero to 100mph overnight. Restrictions can only be lifted gradually to ensure no rebound of the virus. Who starts back first? Baristas or barristers? Clothes shops or tattooists? Everyone will argue they ought to have priority. Not all are going to get it.