The Liberal party is at a crossroads as it grapples with its ageing membership base and lacklustre appeal to women and young people. A recent paper from the internal Commission group, led by Queensland senator James McGrath, has thrown into sharp relief the urgent need for change. Among its proposals are measures to engage with underrepresented groups and revamp internal structures – but one contentious option has sparked a fierce debate: the introduction of gender quotas.
The paper's suggestions have not been universally welcomed, however. Party leader Angus Taylor has swiftly ruled out quotas, stating that he has never supported the idea. But in a surprise move, his deputy Jane Hume hinted that all options remain on the table for consideration.
Shadow cabinet minister Anne Ruston has sounded a dire warning, urging the party to act with urgency and take concrete steps to boost female representation in Parliament. With only 22% of Liberal MPs being women, she argues that simply listening is not enough – action is required to address this glaring disparity.
Ruston's words have been echoed by former Liberal MP Jason Falinski, who believes the party must also focus on reconnecting with disillusioned young men. However, others within the party have dismissed the review as unnecessary or even 'ridiculous', raising questions about whether it will yield any meaningful recommendations.
Commissioned by former Liberal leader Sussan Ley, the report has been the subject of internal debate – with some MPs questioning its relevance and others expressing concerns that it will replicate previous reviews. As the party struggles to come to terms with its current state, one thing is clear: without drastic change, the Liberals risk losing touch with a rapidly changing electorate.