Libs leader suddenly quits two week after booting backbenchers from party room

Libs leader suddenly quits two weeks after booting backbenchers from party room

Tensions within the ACT opposition have intensified since two MLAs were suspended. Leanne Castley has stepped down as ACT opposition leader less than two weeks after she decided to remove two Liberals from the party room for crossing the floor.

The unrest lasted for thirteen days following Ms Castley’s expulsion of her predecessor, Elizabeth Lee, and her colleague, Peter Cain. On Monday morning, Ms Castley and her deputy, Jeremy Hanson, announced they were both resigning from their leadership roles to give the party a stronger path to success in the 2028 election.

“A vote will be held to elect a new leadership team, and neither of us will be contesting any leadership positions. We extend our full support and best wishes to those who will take on these important roles.”

“In the spirit of ensuring a genuine fresh start for the new team, we will not be commenting publicly on the circumstances that have led to this decision.”

Having served 375 days in office, Ms Castley is now the ACT’s second-shortest-serving opposition leader, surpassed only by Craig Duby, who held the role for just six and a half hours. The party is scheduled to hold a vote on Monday to elect a new leadership team.

Previously, on October 28, Ms Castley unexpectedly announced before question time that she had suspended Elizabeth Lee and Peter Cain from the Canberra Liberals party room.

Author’s Summary

Leanne Castley resigned as ACT opposition leader two weeks after suspending two colleagues, aiming to give her party a renewed chance ahead of the 2028 election.

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The Canberra Times The Canberra Times — 2025-11-10

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