The Liberal Party is circulating proposals and seeking feedback on how to increase the number of women in its parliamentary ranks, as part of efforts to rebuild after consecutive federal election defeats. According to reporting, the party is considering ideas discussed in a new internal discussion paper prepared by the Liberal Party Commission, an internal review group established under former leader Sussan Ley.
The discussion paper highlights engagement-focused options aimed at improving participation from women, multicultural communities and young people. While the paper again raises the question of gender quotas, senior Liberal figures disagree on the approach. Shadow cabinet ministers and other party members urge the party to act with urgency and indicate that the party should be willing to consider changes if it wants different outcomes.
Angus Taylor, a prominent Liberal figure, says he opposes gender quotas and has rejected the proposal. However, the party leadership signals that it will consider “all options,” including but not limited to quotas, following internal debate. The issue is framed within the party’s broader review of its performance and strategy, and the discussion is being canvassed among supporters.
