Liberal leader Sussan Ley faces intense scrutiny from the Canberra press as speculation grows about the stability of her leadership. Questions emerged after remarks from within her own party suggested she might lose control within a year.
Sussan Ley was challenged by reporters following critical comments from Liberal Senator Sarah Henderson, who expressed she "could not support things the way they are" and indicated Ley was "losing support" within the party.
At a Canberra press conference, Ley was asked directly if her "days leading the party were numbered" while she sought to criticize the Albanese government on living costs. However, she declined to address rumors, stating:
“I’m very proud of the team that represents Australian values.”
When pressed about Senator Henderson’s comments, Ley did not name her but said:
“I value every single member of my team including the good Senator that you’ve just mentioned. In order to interrogate her view, you should probably ask her.”
Despite rising divisions in the party, especially between moderates and conservatives over net zero emissions targets, Ley emphasized her team’s commitment to finding a resolution.
Author's summary: Sussan Ley faces mounting leadership challenges as internal party criticism grows, yet she insists on focusing her team’s efforts on policy solutions despite deepening divisions.