CANBERRA, January 30, 2026 –
Andrew Hastie has withdrawn from the contest to lead the Liberal Party, clearing a path for Angus taylor to challenge Sussan Ley for the position.
- Hastie’s withdrawal-Andrew Hastie said Friday he lacked support for a leadership bid.
- Taylor Challenge-hastie’s exit is expected to allow Angus Taylor to challenge Sussan Ley.
- Coalition Split-The potential challenge follows a division within the Liberal-National coalition.
Andrew Hastie will not contest the leadership of the Liberal Party next week, effectively opening the door for Angus Taylor to challenge Sussan Ley, according to a statement released Friday. The West Australian backbencher and former soldier cited a lack of support as the reason for his decision.
“Having consulted colleagues over the past week and respecting their honest feedback to me, it is indeed clear that I do not have the support needed to become leader of the Liberal Party,” Hastie said in his statement.
Hastie attended a gathering of conservative Liberal men on Thursday,including Taylor,before a memorial service. Sources say Hastie’s withdrawal now allows Taylor to launch a challenge.
Hastie Retreat ‘First Domino to Fall’ for Taylor Challenge
“With andrew pulling out, it’s clear there is only one contender who is ready,” a source said. Another liberal described Hastie’s withdrawal as “the first domino to fall,” stating the leadership is now “open” for Taylor.
Taylor, the former shadow treasurer, has not directly lobbied for the job but remains on the Liberal frontbench.
Earlier Friday, Ley announced temporary arrangements following Nationals’ resignations from her shadow cabinet. She stated she would announce permanent replacements next week if the split remains.
“The Nationals’ decision was regrettable and needless,” Ley said in a statement.
hastie had considered a run but faced criticism online after supporting Labor’s hate group laws.
“Australia faces massive issues. I will continue campaigning on critical issues including immigration and energy,” Hastie said. He referenced the Coalition split, stating he would work to make his party “the very best version of itself.”
What This Means for You
The potential leadership change comes amid economic uncertainty, with an expected interest rate hike next week. A change could shift the party’s policy priorities, impacting cost of living, energy prices, and immigration.
