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Sunday 22/02/2026

Angus Taylor Challenges Sussan Ley for Leadership of Australia's Liberal Party

Angus Taylor and Sussan Ley in leadership contest
Alex CarterAlex Carter

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Sussan Ley, Australia's first female Liberal leader, faces a leadership challenge from Angus Taylor, who resigned from the shadow cabinet to contest her position.
  • Taylor, representing the conservative faction, criticizes Ley for failing to hold the Labor government accountable and aims to restore the party's founding values.
  • Multiple resignations from the frontbench, including key figures like James McGrath and Michaelia Cash, have intensified pressure on Ley.
  • A leadership spill motion is expected, with Taylor's supporters confident of a narrow victory in the upcoming party room vote.
  • Ley's leadership has been marred by poor polling and internal divisions, with the Liberal-National coalition splitting twice under her tenure.

In a dramatic turn of events, Angus Taylor has launched a leadership challenge against Sussan Ley, the first woman to lead Australia's Liberal Party. Taylor, who resigned from the shadow cabinet, has criticized Ley's leadership, claiming the party has lost its way and failed to effectively oppose the Labor government.

Leadership Challenge Unfolds

The leadership contest comes after months of speculation and internal strife within the Liberal-National coalition. Taylor, representing the conservative faction, announced his resignation from the shadow cabinet on Wednesday, setting the stage for a leadership spill. He argues that the party needs strong and decisive leadership to restore its founding values and protect Australians' way of life.

Resignations and Support for Taylor

The challenge has gained momentum with several high-profile resignations from the frontbench. Key figures such as Queensland senator James McGrath and opposition Senate leader Michaelia Cash have shifted their support to Taylor. These resignations have increased pressure on Ley, who has yet to publicly comment on the challenge.

A Divided Coalition

Ley's leadership has been fraught with challenges, including poor poll numbers and internal divisions. The Liberal-National coalition has split twice under her tenure, most recently over hate speech laws following an attack at Bondi Beach. The coalition's inability to agree on key issues, such as climate policy, has further weakened her position.

The Path Ahead

A party room vote is anticipated by the end of the week, with Taylor's supporters confident of a narrow victory. The leadership contest highlights the ongoing struggle within the party to find a clear direction and regain public support. Ley, who narrowly defeated Taylor in a previous leadership contest, faces an uphill battle to retain her position.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The outcome of the leadership challenge will have significant implications for the Liberal Party's future. If Taylor succeeds, he will need to unify the party and present a coherent opposition to the Labor government. His leadership could signal a shift towards more conservative policies, potentially alienating moderate members. Conversely, if Ley retains her position, she will need to address the internal divisions and improve the party's public image to regain voter confidence. The leadership contest also reflects broader challenges in Australian politics, as parties grapple with changing voter expectations and the need for effective opposition.