Australia’s Most Unsuccessful Party Loses Another Leader
The Canberra Liberals, who have remained in opposition for 24 years, have lost yet another leader after Leanne Castley announced her resignation following a turbulent year at the party’s helm.
Last year, the Labor Party achieved 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 at the territory polls.
On Monday, party leader Leanne Castley and her deputy Jeremy Hanson confirmed they would step aside to make way for new leadership. Reports suggest that current ACT Speaker and former radio announcer Mark Parton is 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,”
“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 years of political stagnation, Canberra Liberals face another leadership shake-up as Leanne Castley and Jeremy Hanson resign to pave the way for renewal ahead of the 2028 election.