In a significant shift for New South Wales politics, Kellie Sloane has been appointed as the new leader of the NSW Liberal Party, becoming only the third woman to hold this prestigious opposition role.
The decision was confirmed during a party room meeting on Friday morning, where the former journalist and first-term MP for Vaucluse secured the leadership position. Her predecessor, barrister Mark Speakman, was ousted by colleagues concerned about his media presence and public profile.
From Journalist to Political Leader
At 52 years old, Sloane brings considerable communication skills to the role, having previously worked as a health spokesperson where she effectively challenged the Labor government over hospital emergency departments. Her appointment comes with strong endorsements, including from ousted leader Speakman himself and support across party factions.
Notably, Alister Henskens, the shadow attorney-general from the party's right wing, decided not to stand for the leadership position, clearing Sloane's path to victory.
Sloane's political journey saw her win the safe seat of Vaucluse in 2023, after an earlier unsuccessful attempt to secure preselection for Willoughby following Gladys Berejiklian's resignation as premier.
Challenges Ahead for New Leadership
The new opposition leader faces substantial hurdles in rebuilding the Liberal brand, which has suffered from ideological infighting at both state and federal levels. Current polling shows support for Liberals has slumped to well below 30% in primary votes – a level that makes winning government exceptionally difficult.
However, Sloane enjoys backing from influential figures within the party's moderate faction, including former prime minister John Howard, ex-premier Nick Greiner, and current Climate Change Authority head Matt Kean.
Housing Policy Emerges as Critical Test
One of the most immediate challenges involves navigating the party's position on housing development. While Speakman had largely supported the Minns government's transport-oriented development policy – describing himself as an "ADIMBY" (appropriate development in my backyard) – Sloane has adopted a more cautious approach.
This is particularly evident in her own constituency of Vaucluse in Sydney's east, where she has made headlines for opposing housing in Rose Bay due to the suburb lacking a "decent supermarket."
Nevertheless, Sloane has indicated support for appropriate development, telling the Australian Financial Review she supports more homes in Edgecliff and Bondi Junction. Regarding plans for a new Woollahra station and up to 10,000 nearby high-rise homes, she stated: "Yes in my backyard, but it comes with an obligation to get it right."
As Sloane takes the helm of the opposition, her communication skills and moderate backing will be tested against significant party challenges and the complex landscape of NSW housing policy.
