Sussan Ley Elected First Female Liberal Opposition Leader Australia

Sussan Ley has been elected as Australia’s first female leader of the federal Liberal Party, narrowly defeating shadow treasurer Angus Taylor in a tightly contested partyroom vote following the party's heavy defeat in the May 3 election. Ley, a long-serving MP and former deputy leader under Peter Dutton, secured 29 votes to Taylor's 25 and is backed primarily by moderates and members of the centre-right faction, while Taylor enjoyed support from the conservative right faction and endorsements from figures like former Prime Minister Tony Abbott. The leadership contest was marked by internal division and concerns about party stability, especially with coalition relations under strain and a potential loss of support from coalition senators. Ley’s background includes experience as a minister under multiple prime ministers, a regional MP, and a colorful personal history including a brief punk rock phase and being a trained pilot. Liberal Senator Hollie Hughes publicly endorsed Ley, highlighting party support for her leadership. The new leader faces the challenge of rebuilding the party’s image and policies to regain voter trust ahead of future elections.