Sussan Ley has officially resigned from parliament following her removal as Liberal leader earlier this month.
Personal Statement and Reflections
In a statement, Ms. Ley confirmed she will not deliver a valedictory speech, expressing confidence that her 25 years of efforts and achievements stand on their own merit. She conveyed sadness over no longer representing her Farrer electorate, highlighting her affection for the wide western plains of New South Wales, the country towns along the Murray and Murrumbidgee Rivers, and the vibrant cities of Albury and Griffith.
Ms. Ley described serving these communities for nearly 25 years as an enormous privilege. She expressed gratitude to her Liberal colleagues for the chance to lead the party.
“I believe my election as the first woman to ever lead not just the Federal Liberal Party, but any Federal Opposition, is a milestone for all women to be proud of,” she stated. “I hope I have paved the way for the next woman to be elected to, and succeed in, both these roles.”
Career Background and Next Steps
As the longtime member for Farrer, Ms. Ley held the seat for the Liberals for more than two decades. Leaders ousted her in February, paving the way for Angus Taylor to take over as Opposition Leader. She then announced her departure from politics.
Her resignation triggers a by-election in Farrer, setting the stage for a competitive four-way contest among the Nationals, Liberals, One Nation, and a Climate-200-backed independent candidate for the lower house seat.
