Sussan Ley has campaigned for the last time in the seat she’s held for 25 years. Her intention to resign will trigger a by-election in the seat of Farrer, which includes Corowa, Howlong, Mulwala and surrounds.
Farrer MP Sussan Ley is stepping away from politics after losing her bid to hold on to the Liberal leadership, triggering a by-election in the seat of Farrer where she has been the Federal member for 25 years.
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Ms Ley was the elected as the first female leader of the Liberal Party of Australia after the party’s disastrous defeat in the 2025 Federal election.
She was ousted by Angus Taylor on Friday morning by 34 votes to 17 and told reporters it was important the new leader had “clear air” to steer the Liberal ship and announced her intention to quit parliament and pursue a life out of the public eye.
"I am not sure what comes next for me,” Ms Ley said.
“I look forward to stepping away, completely and comprehensively, from public life."
She plans to spend time with family, and with her passion for aviation.
Last week, State Member for Albury, Justin Clancey acknowledged Ms Ley’s long service to the region and to the people of Farrer, including the Federation Council area.
“Communities like Corowa, Mulwala and Urana know Sussan well; she has been a familiar and significant representative for many years,” Mr Clancy said.
“Her resignation marks the end of a major chapter for our region, and I want to thank her for the work she has done advocating for local communities along the Murray.
“Politics can be tough, but regional representation matters deeply, and Sussan has been an important voice for border communities.”
Albury MP Justin Clancy has been approached to run for the Federal seat of Farrer.
Ms Ley’s decision will trigger a by-election in Farrer and Mr Clancey, who was elected unopposed as the deputy leader of the NSW Liberal Party in the Legislative Assembly in November, has confirmed that he has been approached to run for the Federal seat.
“The opportunity to run for the seat of Farrer is a significant matter that warrants deep consideration,” he said.
“That’s not something I will make a decision on lightly, and it’s something I can only properly consider in conversation with my family.”
“I believe strongly in the values that underpin the Liberal Party, opportunity, freedom, responsibility, and the importance of the individual, family and community.”
“I want to see the Liberal Party reconnect with those values and re-engage with everyday Australians, with a focus on service, compassion and respect.”
Independent candidate, Michelle Milthorpe has announced her intention to run again after winning almost 20 per cent of primary votes in the 2025 Federal election and 43.81 per cent of the two-candidate preferred vote.
She won all the booths in Albury as well as Jindera, Corowa, Deniliquin and Leeton and says the message is clear that the electorate is ready for change.
Mrs Milthorpe acknowledged Ms Ley’s 24-year parliamentary career as a “a significant contribution to public life” but said the ongoing instability and undermining of her leadership meant the Coalition had sidelined regional communities and focussed on internal power struggles.
She said the decline in support for major parties across the electorate shows that voters are searching for something different.
“People are frustrated … the last election proved this seat is no longer ‘safe’,” Mrs Milthorpe said.
Michelle Milthorpe secured almost 20 per cent of primary votes in the 2025 Federal election as an Independent.
The Nationals did not field a candidate in the Federal election but will contest the Farrer by-election with nominations now open for preselection.
Party chairman Rick Colless said The Nationals were uniquely placed to represent Farrer again after a strong and enduring history.
Former Deputy Prime Minister the late Hon Tim Fischer AC, represented the electorate before Ms Ley from 1984 to 2001.
“The Nationals understand the unique challenges facing rural, regional and remote Australia because we are part of these communities,” Mr Colless said.
“Today, Farrer is grappling with drought conditions, placing enormous strain on farming families, rural communities and local economies.
“When agriculture struggles, the consequences ripple through manufacturing, transport, freight, small and medium enterprises, and countless local businesses that depend on a strong and productive rural sector.
“At the same time, cost-of-living pressures are hitting families and businesses hard.
“We will put forward a strong local candidate who will fight for Farrer, stand up for regional communities, and ensure their voices are heard in Canberra.”
The One Nation candidate received 6.6 per cent of the primary vote in the last election and no doubt the Farrer by-election will be closely watched to see whether recent polling, reflecting a rise in One Nation’s popularity, transcribes into votes.
