Australia’s Most Unsuccessful Party Loses Another Leader
The Canberra Liberals, who have remained in opposition for twenty-four years, have once again lost their leader. Leanne Castley announced she would step down after a challenging year at the party’s helm.
Last year, Labor secured its seventh consecutive victory in the ACT Assembly elections. The Liberals have not held power since 2001, when former Chief Minister and Senator Gary Humphries was defeated by Jon Stanhope.
On Monday, both party leader Leanne Castley and her deputy Jeremy Hanson declared their resignations to allow a new team to take charge. Former radio presenter and current ACT Speaker Mark Parton is widely expected to succeed Castley as leader.
“To give the Canberra Liberals the best possible chance of success in the 2028 election, we have made the decision to step down from leadership,” the pair said in a joint statement.
“A vote will soon be held to elect a new leadership team, and neither of us will be contesting any leadership positions. We extend our full support and best wishes to those who will take on these important roles.”
Author’s Summary
After more than two decades in opposition, Canberra’s Liberal Party faces new leadership changes as Leanne Castley and Jeremy Hanson step aside, aiming to revive fortunes for 2028.