The Federal Liberal Party has initiated a significant leadership change, appointing Angus Taylor as its new leader following the resignation of Sussan Ley. In a decisive vote on March 15, 2025, Taylor secured the position with a tally of 34-17, while Jane Hume was named deputy leader. This transition, however, comes with immediate challenges, as Ley’s departure from politics has prompted a by-election in her New South Wales seat of Farrer.
The political landscape is intensifying, with One Nation announcing its intention to field a “strong candidate” in the upcoming by-election. Additionally, Michelle Milthorpe, an independent candidate supported by Climate 200, has declared her intention to challenge once more, having narrowly lost to Ley in the previous election. The Liberal Party now faces the possibility of increased competition from independent candidates on the Right.
As the new leader, Taylor’s first press conference reflected an understanding of the party’s challenges. He acknowledged that during the last election, “we got some big calls wrong,” and expressed a commitment to returning to the core values of the Liberal Party. His agenda includes addressing issues such as taxation, inflation, and interest rates, alongside a pledge to restore home ownership and evaluate Australia’s immigration policies.
In acknowledging the transition, Taylor took a moment to thank Ley for her contributions. Ley’s leadership, marred by challenges from the outset, was characterized by an inability to reinvigorate the party following its recent electoral setbacks. After her removal, Ley delivered a dignified speech, expressing gratitude to her supporters and wishing her successor success.
Taylor, a Rhodes Scholar and described by Liberal Senator James Paterson as the “smartest policy brain in the shadow cabinet,” now faces the task of translating policy acumen into political success. The party needs to deliver effective communication, manage relations with the Nationals, and rebuild trust with disillusioned conservative voters who have gravitated towards One Nation, as well as urban voters who have shifted their allegiance to independent candidates.
The Coalition parties confront a crucial moment as they must minimize internal discord and present a united front. A strong and credible opposition is vital for holding the Labor Government accountable on critical issues, including the economy, government spending, and housing.
As the Liberal Party navigates this leadership change, voters will closely monitor whether this marks the beginning of a revitalization effort or merely a temporary pause before further instability. The party’s current situation has been described as a “change or die moment.” With this leadership change in place, the pressure mounts for additional reforms to prevent a more dire outcome. The responsibility for this editorial is taken by Editor-in-Chief Christopher Dore.
