Feb 12 • 22:50 UTC 🇦🇺 Australia Guardian Australia

Sussan Ley made promises she couldn’t keep – and some in the Liberal party never wanted her to

Sussan Ley, the new leader of the Liberal Party, aims to revitalize the party's image and align it more closely with modern Australian values after significant electoral defeats.

In her inaugural comments as leader of the Liberal Party, Sussan Ley emphasized the need for the party to evolve and better represent the modern Australia that exists today. Ley, who recently became the first female leader in the party's history, acknowledges the disconnect that has occurred under past leaderships, particularly under Scott Morrison and Peter Dutton. She stated her commitment to ensuring the Liberal Party respects and reflects the diverse demographics of Australia, appealing especially to women, young voters, and those concerned about climate issues.

Ley's enthusiasm was further showcased during her speech at the National Press Club, where she highlighted her passion for increasing female representation within the party. This marks a significant pivot from the previous leadership's approach and signals her intention to actively engage with groups that felt sidelined. By addressing the traditional owners at the start of her address, Ley also underscored the importance of reconciliation and diversity, positioning herself as a leader who is in tune with the evolving societal landscape.

The underlying implication of Ley's vision suggests that the Liberal Party must undergo a fundamental transformation to regain its footing in Australian politics. This is critical not only for the party's future electoral prospects but also for restoring its credibility among voters who have become increasingly skeptical of its relevance. As the party navigates its future direction, Ley's ability to deliver on her commitments will be closely scrutinized, both internally and by the broader electorate.

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