Full Story New Liberal leader Angus Taylor wants to ‘shut the door’
Feb 13, 2026
Tom McIlroy, political editor and analyst, breaks down the Liberal leadership spill and its fallout. He walks through Angus Taylor’s victory, the implications of Sussan Ley quitting, and the party’s pivot toward tougher immigration rhetoric. He also discusses internal instability, by-election risks and the challenge of rebuilding electoral appeal.
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Decisive Leadership Change
- Angus Taylor won the Liberal leadership decisively, signalling a shift in tone and policy focus from the previous leadership.
- He and Jane Hume promise more conservative presentation and policy emphasis to rebuild the party after poor polling.
Immigration And Economy As Early Priorities
- Angus Taylor flagged immigration, tax and opposing Labor's environmental measures as early priorities.
- He specifically said immigration standards have been too low and numbers too high, indicating policy focus there.
Sussan Ley To Resign Soon
- Sussan Ley announced she will leave politics in weeks to give clear air to the new leader after nine months as leader.
- She described being the first female leader of the parliamentary Liberal party and looked forward to a private life.