Liberal Leadership Crisis Deepens as Secret Coup Talks Overshadow Colleague's Memorial
In a dramatic turn of events, the internal turmoil within the Liberal party has escalated into a full-blown political melodrama. Images of a clandestine meeting involving key right-wing figures, held just hours before a memorial service for former colleague Katie Allen, have been splashed across the media, revealing a deepening plot to oust leader Sussan Ley.
A Soap Opera Unfolds in Melbourne
The secret gathering took place at a private residence in Melbourne, where figures such as Andrew Hastie, Jonno Duniam, and Matt O'Sullivan arrived for talks with Angus Taylor. Brokered by former Liberal MP Michael Sukkar and attended by James Paterson, the meeting was captured by The Australian and broadcast widely, casting a shadow over the sombre occasion of Allen's memorial at St Paul's Anglican Cathedral.
Liberal MPs, both male and female, expressed private dismay that colleagues would use such a solemn day to discuss the mechanics of a leadership coup. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese labelled the timing "astonishing", noting the recent end of the Coalition on a national day of mourning for the Bondi massacre victims.
Stalemate and Speculation Fuel the Crisis
More than a week has passed since the Coalition's implosion sparked immediate speculation about Ley's future. The right faction had hoped for a quick resolution, but a stalemate between Taylor and Hastie has dragged on. Taylor, citing his seniority, refuses to step aside, while Hastie's camp insists he has the numbers, leading to days of tortured speculation.
Hastie's Australia Day email to supporters, hinting at a need for change, and reports of his wife's blessing for a leadership tilt have only added fuel to the fire. However, neither has publicly declared intentions, leaving the party in limbo.
Ley's Precarious Position and Loyalty Questions
Despite the chaos, Sussan Ley retains some advantages. The meeting ended without a resolution, making an immediate leadership spill when parliament returns next week unlikely. Yet, the presence of Duniam, Paterson, and Taylor—all members of Ley's leadership team—at the talks confirms the push is not just from rogue backbenchers.
In interviews, Paterson offered a tepid endorsement of Ley, stating he hadn't resigned but failing to provide a strong vote of confidence. Duniam similarly declined to directly endorse her, calling for an end to the "unhelpful" speculation.
The Path Forward and Implications
This unedifying political drama shows no signs of a quick resolution. If it continues, it risks further damaging the Liberal party's cohesion and public image. When a challenge does materialise, it appears certain to mark the end of Ley's leadership, signalling a turbulent period ahead for Australian politics.
The events underscore a broader crisis within the party, as internal divisions and poor timing threaten to overshadow policy debates and public trust.
