Western Australian politics is bracing for a potential internal contest as backbench Labor MP Jessica Page openly signals her ambition to lead the party and the state. The member for the seat of Summit has confirmed she is actively considering a challenge to current Premier Roger Cook ahead of the 2026 deadline for the next leadership ballot.
A Clear Signal of Ambition
In a move that has sent ripples through the Labor caucus, Jessica Page has not been shy about her aspirations. She has publicly stated her intention to "put my hand up" when the leadership is next contested. Under party rules, this must occur by February 2026, setting the stage for a possible showdown within the next two years.
Page, who entered parliament in 2021, has positioned herself as a voice for change within the government. Her comments suggest a belief that the current leadership under Roger Cook requires a fresh perspective, particularly as the government navigates complex issues like cost of living, housing, and the energy transition.
The Incumbent's Position and Internal Dynamics
Premier Roger Cook, who assumed the role in June 2023 following the resignation of Mark McGowan, now faces his first tangible internal challenge. While he has expressed confidence in his team and his agenda, the mere existence of a declared contender like Page indicates underlying tensions.
Political observers note that Cook's leadership has been marked by both continuity and the challenge of emerging from the long shadow of his popular predecessor. The Premier has been working to establish his own public profile and policy direction. However, Jessica Page's manoeuvring suggests that some within the party's ranks are already looking toward a different future.
The situation is further complicated by the broader context of WA Labor's electoral dominance. Having secured a historic majority in 2021, the party must now manage internal expectations and ambitions without the unifying pressure of a strong opposition. This environment can often foster leadership speculation and challenges.
What a 2026 Contest Would Mean for WA
A leadership contest in 2026 would have significant implications for the state's political landscape. Firstly, it would force a public debate on policy direction within the Labor Party. Jessica Page would need to articulate a clear alternative vision to that of Roger Cook, potentially highlighting divisions on key issues.
Secondly, it would test the unity of the parliamentary Labor party. A contested ballot, regardless of the outcome, can leave lingering factions. How the party manages this process will be crucial for its cohesion heading toward the next state election, due in 2025 but with the leadership settled a year later.
Finally, it presents a strategic question for voters. An internal challenge can be framed as either healthy renewal or destabilising disunity. Both Roger Cook and any challenger, like Jessica Page, would need to convince the public that their leadership would provide stable and effective government for Western Australia.
For now, the political chessboard is being set. Jessica Page has made her opening move by declaring her interest, while Roger Cook continues in the top job, aware that the clock is ticking toward 2026. The coming months will reveal whether Page can gather the necessary support from colleagues to mount a serious challenge and whether the Premier can consolidate his authority to see it off.
