Change or die: How the Liberal Party’s long resistance to reform has left it fighting for life

The Liberal Party of Australia finds itself in a precarious position, struggling to maintain relevance and relevance in the face of growing voter discontent. Leadership uncertainty and a lack of voter attraction have plagued the party, prompting its leader, Angus Taylor, to declare in his first press conference as party leader in February 2026, the need for "change or die".

In an effort to modernize and revitalize itself, the Liberal Party initiated a commission in May 2026 to gather ideas and build consensus around an organizational reform agenda. This commission released a discussion paper and a survey, with the aim of addressing long-standing issues that have plagued the party. Marija Taflaga, a Senior Lecturer at the Australian National University who researches Australian politics in comparative context, notes the importance of the party's relationship with parliament and the executive.

Dr Zareh Ghazarian, an associate professor in politics and international relations at Monash University, emphasizes the significance of democratic theory and political liberalism in understanding the Liberal Party's current predicament. He highlights that linguistic justice, civility, and free speech are also integral to the party's ability to engage with its electorate effectively.

Associate Professor Matteo Bonotti, from Monash University, adds that the party's ability to foster a sense of civility and free speech is crucial in sustaining its relevance and appeal to voters. Without addressing these fundamental issues and fostering a more inclusive and representative party, the Liberal Party risks becoming irrelevant and ultimately "dying".