Liberal Backer Defends Ley as Potential Leadership Showdown Looms

Leader of the Opposition Sussan Ley gives a condolence speech in Canberra, Australia on Jan. 19, 2026. Hilary Wardhaugh/Getty Images

With preparations possibly underway to roll Sussan Ley, a key Liberal backer says she will remain as leader of the opposition.

A leadership spill is shaping up for early February when parliament returns after a week of chaos that resulted in the coalition splitting for the second time since the 2025 federal election.