Sussan Ley, new leader of the Liberal Party, gave a shocking and commendable speech at the National Press Club. Her speech represents an audacious deviation from the party’s course. Ley’s speech reflects her commitment to reshaping policies as she acknowledges the party’s recent electoral setbacks and internal struggles, particularly concerning climate policy.
Ley, who previously pledged to construct seven nuclear power plants, is reconsidering her approach. As for Canady herself, she’s looking at a clean slate on energy and climate policies. Her message was that her party needed to change and grow. This is particularly important when seeking to reflect the values and concerns of contemporary Australia. Ley has set up a shadow cabinet of sorts – something that will directly report back to her and Deputy Leader David Littleproud. Their mission is to provide a more stable, cheaper energy grid and to be a leader in emission reductions.
In her opening speech, Ley called on country, noting traditional owners. This parliamentary move is in stark opposition to the current perception of Indigenous recognition by former Coalition leader Peter Dutton. This change demonstrates Ley’s desire to make the party more welcoming and caring towards a larger constituency.
Prioritizing Representation and Inclusivity
Ley’s leadership has already sparked discussions about increasing women’s representation within the party. She challenged the new government with refreshing honesty, declaring that the Liberal Party needs to improve in its efforts to recruit, retain and support women in politics. Her remarks were made in response to the Coalition’s shrinking numbers of women in federal parliament.
“But what is not fine is not having enough women. As the first woman leader of our federal party, let me send the clearest possible message: We need to do better, recruit better, retain better and support better.” – Sussan Ley
Ley herself is supportive of bringing in gender quotas to increase the number of women in parliament. She explained that it is permissible for certain state agencies to implement quotas. All branches need to act to improve.
“If some state divisions choose to implement quotas, that is fine. If others don’t, that is also fine,” – Sussan Ley
Ley is passionate about making gender equality a reality. This commitment is intended to help the Liberal Party more closely mirror the diversity of the Australian people. She claimed that to earn back voter trust, the party needed to reflect and honour contemporary Australia.
“As we seek to regain trust with all voters across our great country, the task before me — and my team — is to lead a Liberal Party that respects modern Australia, reflects modern Australia and represents modern Australia,” – Sussan Ley
Reevaluating Policies for Future Success
Ley’s work goes far beyond the page to increase representation. She’s currently leading the party through an extensive review process following the party’s electoral defeat in last election. She is realistic enough to know that voters’ rebuke of her party is, for her, a defining moment that cannot be missed or glossed over. Ley said these moves reflect her strong faith in responsible economic management and a dedication to provide greater value for taxpayers.
Drawing on her experience in a highly politicized Australian Tax Office before entering Parliament, Ley remembered that experience. She says this role proved a particularly valuable experience as it allowed her to see first-hand how Australia’s tax system really works.
“Before entering parliament, I worked at the Australian Tax Office. That role gave me a firsthand understanding of how our tax system works and, often, how it doesn’t,” – Sussan Ley
Ley’s overarching goal is to make economic policy more outcome-oriented and real-world-focused. Her signature issue is her emphasis on fiscal responsibility. This emphasis makes sense alongside her commitment to bolster the party’s grassroots as it looks toward headwinds in coming cycles.
Addressing Security and Defence Concerns
In her National Day address, Ley focused on the need to grow defence spending in wake of global unrest. Ms Wong said Australia needed to strengthen its own defence in order to protect national security.
“Prime minister, when it comes to standing up for women and children, I am ready to work with you.” – Sussan Ley
Ley’s calls for increased defence spending show her recognition of changing global realities and national security priorities. Her leadership represents an attempt to reestablish the Liberal Party’s stance on these critical issues while addressing domestic concerns.
Ley’s time as leader also dramatically changes the Liberal Party’s position. She leads with a passion for inclusive engagement and pushes bold policy changes. By prioritizing women’s representation and addressing pressing issues such as energy stability and national security, Ley aims to reshape the party’s identity.
