Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has reached out to former Prime Minister John Howard for strategic advice on countering the rising influence of Pauline Hanson and her populist party, One Nation. Ley’s move comes as she works to solidify her leadership position amid concerns over migration rates and internal party dynamics. With a crucial migration policy set to be revealed after parliament rises for the year, Ley aims to address growing public anxiety surrounding immigration.
Ley has instructed her shadow ministers to expedite the development of a new migration framework. This plan is expected to outline potential reductions in migration streams beyond international students. The backdrop to this initiative includes recent debates within the Liberal Party and the Nationals regarding population targets, particularly following their success in establishing a 2050 net zero emissions target.
On Monday, Ley engaged in a series of media appearances to promote the Coalition’s energy strategy while addressing speculation about a potential leadership challenge from Andrew Hastie, a member of the party’s Moderate faction. Ley asserted her resilience, stating, “I’ve been underestimated a lot of my life,” during an interview on 2GB, referencing her experiences of overcoming skepticism in her career.
The political landscape remains charged, with recent polling data from the Australian Financial Review indicating that One Nation has gained significant traction, boasting an 18 percent primary vote, trailing the Coalition’s 24 percent. Ley’s strategy aims to reclaim voters who have shifted towards Hanson by adopting a tougher stance on immigration while simultaneously addressing concerns about net zero policies.
Ley’s approach seeks to balance a firm immigration policy with respect for Australia’s multicultural fabric. She emphasized her appreciation for migrant communities, stating, “I have my own migrant story. I deeply appreciate communities and individuals who’ve made the choice to come to Australia.” This sentiment, expressed during her appearance on Nine’s Today show, highlights her intention to communicate the positive contributions of migrants while discussing immigration levels.
Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price endorsed Ley’s direction, calling for the party to move away from catering to elite interests. Price suggested that significant cuts to certain migration pathways might be necessary, even if this entails a temporary halt on specific visa categories.
As the political climate intensifies, Ley faces the challenge of navigating sensitive discussions around immigration without alienating voters from multicultural backgrounds. The recent surge in migration following the reopening of borders post-pandemic has contributed to growing public concern. Although immigration levels have decreased, they remain above pre-pandemic figures.
In her efforts to formulate a comprehensive migration policy, Ley has tasked Paul Scarr, the immigration spokesman, and Jonno Duniam, the shadow home affairs minister, with details on which visa categories may be impacted. Ley acknowledged the complexity of the migration landscape, stating, “We have working holidaymakers, skilled visas, a humanitarian intake, and a family reunion intake,” as she prepares to outline the Coalition’s strategy.
With speculation surrounding her future as leader, some party members are rallying behind Hastie, although reports suggest he is not planning an immediate challenge. He is currently recovering from an injury that requires surgery. Party insiders indicate that while interest in leadership exists, a clear plan is essential for any forthcoming challenge.
The internal dynamics within the party remain fluid, with no consensus on a potential successor should Ley’s position become untenable. Ley’s supporters continue to express confidence in her leadership, despite challenges from within and external pressures.
As the parliamentary year draws to a close, Ley’s ability to address these issues effectively will be critical for her leadership and the Coalition’s prospects moving forward.
