Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has declared she is "completely confident" she will retain her position through the end of the year, despite mounting speculation about a potential leadership challenge. The Liberal Party has been embroiled in internal tensions following the National Party's decision to abandon its commitment to net zero emissions by 2050.
In a media blitz on Wednesday, Ms Ley addressed the unrest in her party, stating that media commentary often gets "a little bit excited." She emphasized that she would not make "captain's calls" and that the Liberal Party would determine its position on net zero within a fortnight, after which she would negotiate a Coalition stance with the Nationals.
Ms Ley's detractors have suggested a leadership challenge in the new year is "almost unavoidable," even if she navigates the climate debate. Potential challengers include conservative MP Andrew Hastie and former shadow treasurer Angus Taylor. However, senior Liberal James Paterson backed Ms Ley, stressing the need to resolve the net zero issue quickly to focus on the government's performance.
Ms Ley also used the media appearances to rebuke comments made by Coalition backbenchers during debate over Priya's Bill, which ensures maternity leave for women who suffer stillbirth or early infant loss. She did not name the politicians but criticized references to late-term abortions during the debate.
