Sussan Ley Becomes First Female Leader of Australia’s Liberal Party After Historic Election Loss

For the first time in its history, Australia’s Liberal Party has elected a woman—Sussan Ley—as its leader, following a devastating election defeat under former leader Peter Dutton. Ley narrowly defeated conservative challenger Angus Taylor by four votes and has vowed to lead a “fresh and modern” approach to reconnect with voters.

The Liberal-National Coalition’s loss on May 3 is being called its worst ever, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s Labor Party securing a strong majority. Analysts blamed the Coalition’s defeat on unpopular leadership and polarising policies that alienated young voters and women.

Ley, who has represented the NSW seat of Farrer since 2001, is a veteran politician and formerly served as deputy leader. Known for her unconventional background—she was born in Nigeria, raised in the UAE, and once worked as a pilot and cattle musterer—Ley says she wants to reset the party’s values to reflect modern Australia.

She promised to conduct a full review of policies, including positions on net-zero emissions and nuclear energy, and pledged there would be no “captain’s calls” under her leadership.

The party also elected Queensland MP Ted O’Brien—an advocate of nuclear power—as deputy leader.

Meanwhile, Labor’s new Cabinet has been sworn in, with Tanya Plibersek and Michelle Rowland taking on new roles, while high-profile ministers Mark Dreyfus and Ed Husic were dropped.

Ley’s historic win comes at a moment of deep reflection for the Liberal Party, as it seeks to reestablish its relevance and rebuild public trust.