Liberal Leader Sussan Ley Sacks Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price Over Migrant Vote Comments

Liberal leader Sussan Ley has removed Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price from the frontbench following Price's controversial comments about Indian migrants and her refusal to apologise or express confidence in Ley's leadership. Price, who defected from the Nationals to the Liberals earlier in 2025 and is known for her hardline conservative views, particularly on immigration, has sparked division within the party by suggesting that the Albanese government prioritizes migrants likely to vote Labor, specifically mentioning the Indian community. Despite pressure from party allies to apologise, Price has remained defiant, asserting she will not be silenced on immigration issues and receiving support from conservative commentators, even as some data she cited was questioned. Ley faced a difficult decision balancing the risk of alienating Price’s supporters and conservative commentators while maintaining party unity and authority, ultimately choosing to demote Price to the backbench. The episode has highlighted ongoing tensions within the Liberal Party between more moderate elements and a rising conservative faction represented by Price, with some critics arguing Ley’s cautious leadership style has contributed to internal instability. Price’s continued outspoken stance ensures she remains a significant figure in the party, now free to advocate her positions from the backbench.