The Liberals never gave members the same scope to be involved and influence policy as Labor did. Now, they are paying the price for it.
- Senior Lecturer, School of Political Science and International Relations, Australian National University
The Liberals, already an awkward grouping of various beliefs, is losing its moderate flank to the teals. It may need to transform to remain a viable political force.
In light of the 2022 election results, offering voters more of what they just rejected is unlikely to be a winning strategy.
The loss of so many from the moderate wing could radically shift the balance of power internally within the Liberal Party and its position within the Australian party system.
It is true federal parliament is an atypical work environment. But that does not make it “special” and therefore, beyond community standards.
Branch stacking raises broader questions about the health of our political parties. There are alternative forms of representation that could bring ordinary Australians into the political system again.
What’s needed is strong leadership and sustained public pressure that makes it is harder for political parties to turn a blind eye to sexual harassment and assault.
The Coalition should not use this unexpected win to allow itself to be complacent and drift. It needs to work out its agenda for the next three years and how it allows internal debate.
As the changing nature of political participation presents increasing challenges for parties, we are likely to see more experimentation with new forms of participation, not less.
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