Opposition Leader Sussan Ley under increased fire after racist comments from Jacinta Nampijinpa Price on migration. Ley was adamant that her leadership is “absolutely not” under threat. The dire situation has caused her to act decisively in order to make amends. Earlier this month, she held a community roundtable with the Indian Australian diaspora. Over a week, they convened to talk about the aftermath of Price’s remarks, which had some members reeling, pained and upset.
Ley’s proactive approach included issuing an apology to those affected, although she clarified that she did not apologize on Price’s behalf. This federal strategy illustrates Ley’s dedication to keep the party united and willing to pursue incremental progress on issues important in diverse communities. The party’s leadership balance between establishment and grassroots is under attack. This apprehension only increased when Price declined to publicly support Ley’s continuation, setting off a renewed chorus of outrage demanding accountability.
Engaging with Communities
Following the backlash, Ley went on a listening tour with different community advocates. Most importantly, she hit the road and packed her vehicle with her team to connect with Indian Australians.
“I want to extend my apologies to those who were hurt and distressed by the remarks,” – Sussan Ley.
During her visit, Ley pinpointed the challenges that migrants encounter. She emphasized the immediate need to tackle these points, particularly in the context of today’s acute housing crisis. She stressed that migrants experience the most pressing issue of all, unhealthy housing. She reiterated this message in her recent speech to the National Press Club.
Ley’s outreach did not stop there. To mend these relationships, she hosted round tables with Chinese community leaders. This coordinated execution followed Jane Hume’s racist outburst on “Chinese spies” that ignited an immediate and intense nationwide backlash. These sessions were focused on fostering honest dialogue and restoring any damage the party’s relationship with these communities. They wanted to reestablish public trust and create deep community relationships.
Leadership Challenges
As Ley helps steer the agency through these choppy waters, her leadership would come to be put under a microscope. Even after Price had initially refused to back Ley, the scrutiny on her role in this situation increased. The new opposition leader wasted no time shuffling Price to the back bench with this release of shadow outer ministry. Only 105 days later, she fired her completely, demonstrating Ley’s willingness to impose strong internal discipline to keep order among her troops.
Ley’s gambit was audacious, as she openly called out fellow party members who would consider voting against her leadership. She proved her grit and guts in this game-changing action. In her remarks, she conveyed assurance in her own capacity to guide the nation through these difficult waters. Further, she sent a pretty far-flung Alex Hawke in order to try and convince Price to make amends and patch things up with party fences.
The federal opposition leader’s photo op in a new housing estate in Tasmania. This stop brought home her laser-like focus on the top issues that constituents care about, especially right now. By prioritizing discussions around housing and migration, Ley seeks to present herself as a leader who understands and addresses the concerns of everyday Australians.
Future Considerations
Ley’s damage control attempts come as her leadership hangs in the balance after resignations. Recent controversies surrounding Price’s comments have raised serious doubts. These issues in conjunction with other internal issues have cast severe doubt on the saltiness of her seat. Ley doesn’t appear to be worried that her leadership is in jeopardy. The changing dynamics of the party will likely pose a significant challenge over the next few weeks.
As she dies deeper into local communities, building trust and addressing very real concerns, Ley’s road ahead will surely not be without challenges. Yet her resolve to find a way through these challenges might well cement her leadership, as this transformative time unfolds.
