Dramatic Leadership Shakeup Rocks ACT Liberals
The Canberra Liberals have undergone a dramatic leadership transformation following the abrupt resignations of former leader Leanne Castley and her deputy Jeremy Hanson. The political upheaval culminated in former commercial radio host Mark Parton being elected as the new opposition leader during a party-room meeting on Monday.
Weeks of Turmoil Precede Leadership Change
The leadership crisis follows weeks of internal conflict within the territory's opposition party. The turmoil began when Castley sensationally suspended two colleagues – including former leader Elizabeth Lee and backbencher Peter Cain – from the Liberal party room. Their transgression involved crossing the floor to support a Greens motion adding an extra parliamentary sitting week to the 2026 calendar.
This decision sparked significant outrage among grassroots members, given the Liberal party's long-standing tradition of permitting backbenchers to cross the floor without facing expulsion. The controversy created deep divisions within the party that ultimately led to Monday's dramatic leadership changes.
Parton's Call for Unity and Fresh Start
Speaking to reporters after his election, Parton – who resigned as Speaker of the ACT Legislative Assembly to assume the leadership – delivered a blunt assessment of the party's recent struggles. "I'm absolutely sick to death of having conversations about internal party matters," Parton stated, emphasizing that Canberrans were more concerned with substantive issues.
In colourful language that reflected his media background, Parton declared: "I think in recent months my party's been divided by a line that separates people who hang on to shit and people who leave shit behind. And it is time to leave shit behind." He positioned himself as providing "an alternative to the people of Canberra, because God knows they need it."
In a significant move toward reconciliation, Parton revealed that Monday's meeting had unanimously passed a motion welcoming both Lee and Cain back into the party room. He indicated both members would play "much greater roles" under his leadership.
Castley's Unexplained Departure
In her resignation statement, Castley offered no specific explanation for her sudden departure, merely stating she and Hanson were stepping down "to give the Canberra Liberals the best possible chance of success in the 2028 election." She had replaced Elizabeth Lee as leader following last November's ACT election loss – marking the party's seventh consecutive defeat to Labor.
Castley emphasized their decision for a "genuine fresh start" by refusing to publicly comment on the circumstances leading to their resignations.
Parton's Unconventional Political Journey
The new leader brings a distinctive background to territory politics. Before entering the ACT Legislative Assembly in 2016, Parton enjoyed a lengthy career in commercial radio, including work as a race-caller. He has cultivated a strong social media presence through videos documenting his experiences as a local Canberra politician.
This approach has occasionally generated controversy. In 2021, as shadow transport spokesperson, Parton received a formal police caution after livestreaming himself on TikTok while driving. He also made headlines during the COVID-19 pandemic after "unwittingly" breaching Western Australia's strict border restrictions.
First-term MLA Deborah Morris, previously a media adviser to former leader Alistair Coe and federal Liberal frontbencher James Paterson, will serve as Parton's deputy.
Political Reactions and Future Challenges
Labor Chief Minister Andrew Barr acknowledged Castley and Hanson's contributions while congratulating Parton on his new role. Barr noted the significant challenge facing the new leader, particularly with three former leaders sitting in his party room offering no shortage of advice.
The leadership change represents a pivotal moment for the Canberra Liberals as they attempt to rebuild unity and position themselves as a credible alternative government ahead of the 2028 territory election.
