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Liberals Divided as Henderson Refuses Support for Ley

Opposition skills and training spokesman Scott Buchholz cautioned against underestimating Sussan Ley, highlighting her different but valid style of leadership within Australia’s Liberal Party.

“Don’t mistake her feminine politeness for weakness. We have come from a previous leadership style of authoritarian [under Dutton] to now a consultative, and some people mistake that, but there are just different styles of leadership.”

Buchholz described Ley’s leadership as effective under challenging circumstances and contrasted it with the “authoritarian” approach of her predecessor, Peter Dutton. He emphasized that the party must recognize the shift in approach rather than see it as a sign of fragility.

He also responded to Victorian Liberal senator Sarah Henderson’s earlier remarks about Ley, calling them “career-limiting comments” once informed of what she had said.

Buchholz added that the party was still recovering emotionally from the election loss in May and required time to reconcile internal divisions and rebuild morale.

Reporter’s Note

Alexander Darling concluded the update from Melbourne, noting the intensity of political debate and the ongoing adjustments within the opposition ranks.

Author’s Summary

Scott Buchholz defended Sussan Ley’s leadership style, urging unity in a Liberal Party still reeling from defeat and adjusting to a less authoritarian approach.

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The Age The Age — 2025-11-06

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