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Saturday, Jun 07, 2025
Outside the box.
Sussan Ley Advocates for 'Assertive Women' in the Liberal Party Amid Controversy
Ley's response follows remarks by former Liberal President Alan Stockdale regarding women's assertiveness affecting male pre-selection.
Sussan Ley, the leader of the opposition in Australia, has called for more 'assertive women' to join the Liberal Party in response to comments made by Alan Stockdale, a former Victorian treasurer and ex-president of the federal Liberal Party.
Stockdale suggested that due to the increasing assertiveness of women, new rules might be necessary for men seeking pre-selection in the party.
This remark, perceived as implying reverse gender quotas, comes after the Liberal Party's significant loss in the May federal election, which prompted Ley to acknowledge the party’s failure to connect with women voters.
In a statement, Ley emphasized, 'There is nothing wrong with being an assertive woman,' and asserted that the Liberal Party must evolve to 'reflect, respect and represent modern Australia.' She underscored the importance of recognizing the contributions and leadership of women within the party.
Bridget McKenzie, a senator from the Nationals, supported Ley's sentiments and criticized Stockdale's comments, stating he should 'read the room.' She expressed that assertive women are vital as they represent their communities and advocate for their nations.
McKenzie referred to Stockdale’s comments as 'shocking' and suggested he return to the Melbourne club for discussions with his peers about the party's current challenges.
In response to the controversy, Stockdale clarified his remarks through the Sydney's Daily Telegraph, describing them as 'lighthearted but poorly chosen.' Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also addressed the situation, indicating that the Liberal Party needs to reflect on its internal structures and overall approach.
The Labor Party has made strides toward gender equality over the past three decades, implementing quotas in 1994, which has led to a significant increase in female representation.
Following the 2025 election, for the first time, women in the Labor Party outnumbered men in the lower house of Parliament.
The Liberal Party, historically criticized for its handling of female candidates, has faced challenges in garnering support from women voters.
In the latest election cycle, the Coalition elected a total of 10 women MPs—eight from the Liberal Party and two from the Nationals—marking only a slight increase from the previous election.
Stockdale suggested that due to the increasing assertiveness of women, new rules might be necessary for men seeking pre-selection in the party.
This remark, perceived as implying reverse gender quotas, comes after the Liberal Party's significant loss in the May federal election, which prompted Ley to acknowledge the party’s failure to connect with women voters.
In a statement, Ley emphasized, 'There is nothing wrong with being an assertive woman,' and asserted that the Liberal Party must evolve to 'reflect, respect and represent modern Australia.' She underscored the importance of recognizing the contributions and leadership of women within the party.
Bridget McKenzie, a senator from the Nationals, supported Ley's sentiments and criticized Stockdale's comments, stating he should 'read the room.' She expressed that assertive women are vital as they represent their communities and advocate for their nations.
McKenzie referred to Stockdale’s comments as 'shocking' and suggested he return to the Melbourne club for discussions with his peers about the party's current challenges.
In response to the controversy, Stockdale clarified his remarks through the Sydney's Daily Telegraph, describing them as 'lighthearted but poorly chosen.' Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also addressed the situation, indicating that the Liberal Party needs to reflect on its internal structures and overall approach.
The Labor Party has made strides toward gender equality over the past three decades, implementing quotas in 1994, which has led to a significant increase in female representation.
Following the 2025 election, for the first time, women in the Labor Party outnumbered men in the lower house of Parliament.
The Liberal Party, historically criticized for its handling of female candidates, has faced challenges in garnering support from women voters.
In the latest election cycle, the Coalition elected a total of 10 women MPs—eight from the Liberal Party and two from the Nationals—marking only a slight increase from the previous election.