Navigating Challenges and Defining the Liberal Party's Future

Opposition Leader Sussan Ley is scheduled to address the National Press Club. This appearance is significant for several reasons. Her predecessor, Peter Dutton, did not appear there as opposition leader. Furthermore, the National Press Club is a challenging forum for a new leader.

Ley's decision to make an early appearance is a strategic move, signaling that she is not risk-averse. She aims to cultivate a better relationship with the Canberra Press Gallery than Dutton did. He often bypassed the gallery journalists, viewing them as part of the "Canberra bubble."

Ley's office has taken steps to engage with the press gallery, including establishing a WhatsApp group to share information. This approach mirrors the Prime Minister's Office's practices. Additionally, one of Ley's press secretaries has been actively engaging with the media in Parliament House.

Ley has made a promising start, exceeding the expectations of many, including some within her own party. She navigated a disagreement with the Nationals and conducted a frontbench reshuffle. Her comments on various issues have been reasonable.

Ley will face scrutiny at the Press Club, and several key questions await her. One fundamental question is how she will bridge the divide within the Liberal Party. The party's "broad church" approach is no longer effective. The party faces an identity crisis, with conservatives and moderates holding differing views.

Another crucial question is how Ley will address the Coalition's commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050. She has the opportunity to define her position on this issue. The Liberals' stance on net-zero is likely to be a central point of debate.

Furthermore, Ley will be questioned on the party's efforts to increase the representation of women in the House of Representatives. She needs to articulate a clear strategy on this matter.

Ley's approach to the tax debate launched by the Treasurer will also be scrutinized. She will need to decide how constructive the opposition will be. Additionally, the opposition's approach in the Senate raises questions of principle and political strategy.

Finally, Ley's involvement in improving the Liberal state organizations, particularly in NSW and Victoria, will be assessed. The party is facing challenges in these states, including factional infighting.