UPDATE: Former Channel Nine star Kellie Sloane has been elected as the new leader of the NSW Liberal Party, marking a significant shift in leadership just 18 months before the crucial 2027 election. Her unanimous election was confirmed during a party meeting held this morning, following the resignation of Mark Speakman.
Sloane’s ascent comes amidst a tumultuous period for the party, which has faced declining support and calls for fresh leadership. Speakman, who had been under increasing pressure, announced his resignation on Thursday, endorsing Sloane as his successor. Conservative candidate and Shadow Attorney-General Alister Henskens withdrew from the race, paving the way for her unopposed election.
The 52-year-old Sloane, who is a mother of three, brings extensive experience from her previous career in journalism as a news presenter for Nine, Seven, and the ABC. She was elected as the Member for Vaucluse during the 2023 state election and quickly rose to a prominent role in the opposition under Speakman.
Sloane’s election is particularly notable as she becomes the second woman in a week to replace a male leader in state Liberal politics, following Jess Wilson in Victoria. However, she faces a daunting challenge, as no first-term opposition has won an election in NSW or federally since the 1930s. Current polls indicate that the coalition risks losing more seats to Labor if elections were held today.
Electoral analyst Ben Raue commented on the situation, stating, “They are in a pretty dire spot at the moment… unless that is the specific reason why you’re unpopular, it’s not going to change anything.” Sloane will collaborate with new Nationals leader Gurmesh Singh, who was also elected unopposed earlier this week.
As the NSW Liberals prepare for the upcoming election, Sloane’s leadership may be crucial in redefining the party’s direction and public perception. With the next election scheduled for March 2027, all eyes will be on her and her ability to galvanize support for the coalition.
Stay tuned as this story develops, and share your thoughts on what this leadership change means for the future of the NSW Liberals.
