Ousted Liberal leader Sussan Ley has announced she will quit federal politics in the coming weeks, triggering a high-stakes by-election in her regional New South Wales seat of Farrer.
The decision follows a decisive partyroom spill on Feb. 13 morning, where Ley was defeated by former shadow treasurer Angus Taylor in a 34 to 17 vote.
Ley, who served as the first female leader of the Liberal Party for just nine months, confirmed her departure shortly after the ballot.
Addressing reporters, she reflected on the "tough" nature of her tenure but expressed deep gratitude for her 25-year career representing her electorate.
"I want to express gratitude to the Liberal Party that I have belonged to and love for more than half of my adult life," Ley said, citing her mother’s advice not to "dwell in disappointment."
The leadership transition marks a sharp shift for the Coalition. Taylor, a prominent figure of the party’s conservative wing, will be joined by Senator Jane Hume, who was elected deputy leader after defeating Ted O'Brien.
Hume’s appointment is historic, as she becomes the first senator to serve as the Liberal deputy.
Ley’s resignation from her safe seat of Farrer—which she has held since 2001—sets the stage for a potentially messy by-election.
While the Liberals have historically held the seat, the vacancy may invite a challenge from the National Party under existing Coalition agreements.