FARRER MP, Sussan Ley, has been elected by Federal Liberal Party Parliamentary members as the official leader of the Opposition.
Ms Ley takes on the job after the defeat of the Coalition at this month’s election, which saw Liberals reduced 42 seats in the Lower House, including the loss of her predecessor Peter Dutton.
She said taking on the role of Opposition Leader was a “huge privilege” but she was also still focused on her local electorate.
“It is a huge privilege to be elected as the Leader of the Liberal Party, and I want to acknowledge every one of my colleagues who’ve given me that opportunity,” she said.
“While the significance of the election result is not lost on any of us, I approach this new position with enormous optimism.
“I am committed to listen to the message voters have delivered, and commit the Liberal Party to respect, reflect and represent the views and needs of modern Australia.
“That said, representing the interests of Farrer is my number one focus and always has been.
“Being the leader of our party will never play second fiddle to looking after Farrer.
“Like so many regional areas, we are being completely ignored by Labor; I intend to be a firm, sensible voice arguing the needs of our nation, both city and country.
“I know some have said that it will be tough to balance the job of local MP with this party leadership role, but I disagree entirely: ‘tough’ was raising three children on a family farm while pursuing a university degree.”
Ms Ley is the first woman to take on the role of Federal Opposition Leader, and the first woman to lead the Federal Parliamentary Liberal Party.
She was elected to the National Parliament in 2001 upon the retirement of then Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of the National Party, Tim Fischer.
On Monday, the National Party reconfirmed their current leader, David Littleproud for the next Parliamentary term.
The Member for Maranoa in south west Queensland thanked his party room members and those who voted for the Nationals on May 3.
“It is an enormous honour to be elected as Leader of The Nationals by my colleagues in today’s party room meeting,” he said.
“I am humbled to serve my party and my colleagues, but most importantly, the people of Australia.
“I thank those who voted for The Nationals at this past election and our volunteers, members and candidates.
“I give you a commitment to work hard and continue to take common sense to Canberra.”
The first sittings of the new Parliament are yet to be announced but should take place in either late June or early July.
