In a recent interview, Sussan Ley, the first female leader of the federal Liberal Party, openly acknowledged the severity of the party’s defeat in the last federal election, stating, "We were smashed." Despite this setback, the 63-year-old is resolute about revitalising her party, embodying a passion and commitment to return it to prominence.
Inviting 60 Minutes to spend time with her in Albury, the birthplace of the Liberal Party, Ley shared insights into her life beyond politics. After landing in her Cessna 182, she reflected on her lifelong love for aviation and the challenges she faced in becoming a pilot. Her determination, reminiscent of her political journey, was showcased as she recounted the moment she flew solo for the first time, exclaiming, "I walked 10 feet above the ground."
Ley’s early days as the newly elected opposition leader have already proven challenging, marked by the need to unite a fractured coalition amidst her personal grief following her mother’s passing just days after her election. She described this period as "stressful" and recognised that the demands of politics often overlook personal tragedy.
Currently, Ley is in a phase of reflection and assessment as she awaits two reviews regarding the party’s performance and policies. She openly admits that the Liberal Party has fallen out of sync with contemporary Australia, especially in relation to engaging female voters. While she did not commit to specific measures like quotas, she stressed the importance of having strong women stepping forward in politics.
Acknowledging the fierce internal dynamics of the Liberal Party, Ley is aware of the obstacles ahead but remains optimistic, drawing motivation from her new role as a grandmother. She’s particularly inspired by her granddaughter Sage, stating, "When you see how important it is to get things right for the next generation, that’s a tremendous motivator."
Despite the uncertainties surrounding her leadership in a tumultuous political environment, Ley is dedicated to her vision: to make Australia an exceptional land of opportunity for all. Her determination reflects a blend of personal resilience and a deeper commitment to rebuilding trust within the community and her party.