Liberal Leaders Reject Senior Member's Controversial Comments on Women

Alan Stockdale, a senior Liberal Party figure and former Victorian treasurer, faced widespread criticism for comments made during a NSW Liberal Women's Council meeting suggesting women were "sufficiently assertive" and that the party might need to "protect men's involvement." Opposition leader Sussan Ley, the first female leader of the Liberal Party, rejected the remarks emphatically, encouraging assertive women to join the party and emphasizing the importance of female representation. Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie also condemned Stockdale's comments, urging him to "read the room" and highlighting that women now hold 45% of NSW Liberal MPs' positions. Stockdale later apologized, describing his statement as a poorly chosen joke and expressing regret for any offense caused. The controversy comes amid ongoing discussions about gender representation in the party, especially after the Coalition's recent shadow cabinet reshuffle, which saw criticism over the demotion of prominent women. Party leaders stressed the need for more assertive women to reflect modern Australia and effectively represent communities in politics.