CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 19: Leader of the Opposition, the Hon. Sussan Ley gives a condolence speech on January 19, 2026 in Canberra, Australia. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recalled parliament early, with a number of key pieces of legislation on the agenda, including the tightening of gun control laws. (Photo by Hilary Wardhaugh/Getty Images)
Preparations are intensifying for a potential leadership challenge within the Liberal Party as opposition leader Sussan Ley faces scrutiny from within her ranks. A leadership spill is anticipated in early February 2025, coinciding with the return of parliament following a tumultuous week that saw the coalition divide for the second time since the federal election in 2025.
The political landscape has become increasingly charged, with conservative figures such as Angus Taylor and Andrew Hastie emerging as frontrunners to pose a challenge to Ley’s leadership. This internal contest arises amid rising discontent within the party regarding Ley’s direction and effectiveness.
Despite the impending challenge, Ley has garnered notable support from within the party. Julian Leeser, a prominent Liberal frontbencher and moderate voice, publicly expressed his “unequivocal support” for Ley during a recent interview with Sky News Australia. He emphasized her performance during a time of national crisis, stating, “During this period where Australia has been in a period of national crisis, she has shown the leadership that the prime minister has failed to do.”
Ley’s leadership has been marked by significant challenges, particularly in light of the coalition’s recent split, which has raised questions about its unity and direction. As tensions rise, party members are grappling with the implications of a leadership change so soon after the federal election.
The upcoming weeks will be crucial for Ley as she navigates this political landscape. With party loyalty being tested and the potential for new candidates to enter the fray, her ability to maintain leadership will hinge on how effectively she can rally support from both moderate and conservative factions within the party.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on the Liberal Party and its response to the challenges ahead. The February parliamentary session is expected to set the stage for this pivotal leadership showdown, with significant implications for the party’s future direction.
