Tony Abbott's Potential Return to Politics Under New Liberal Leadership
The conservative faction has regained control within the Liberal party, bringing back its most influential and polarising figure, former prime minister Tony Abbott. This shift follows Angus Taylor's recent victory over Sussan Ley for the federal Liberal leadership, marking a significant power change.
Internal Power Dynamics and Speculation
In June last year, the Liberal party's federal executive met to discuss an intervention into the troubled New South Wales division. At that time, the national right faction attempted to install Abbott on a new management committee, but this move was thwarted by allies of Sussan Ley. Today, with Taylor in charge, such a push would likely succeed, highlighting the conservatives' renewed influence.
Speculation is rife within the party about Abbott's role in this new era. Some insiders believe he is positioning himself to replace John Olsen as federal president, a role overseeing the party's administrative wing and campaign infrastructure. Olsen's position is up for re-election at the federal council meeting in late May.
Other Liberals, speaking anonymously, suggest Abbott has greater ambitions. A senior source revealed, "Tony has had an interest in the role of federal president, but what he would really like to do is return to parliament." Abbott confirmed earlier this year that he had a conversation with former leader Peter Dutton about a potential return but did not pursue it after being told it would complicate Dutton's leadership.
Abbott's Openness to a Comeback
In a written statement, Abbott said, "I want to be as helpful as I can be to Angus Taylor and the Liberal party more generally." He added that this would likely involve continuing his current activities, such as writing, speaking, and campaigning, rather than taking on party positions or contesting elections, unless it was the clear wish of the party leadership.
The final line of his statement confirms that Abbott is open to resurrecting his parliamentary career if Taylor actively drafts him in, something Dutton was unwilling to do. This makes a short-term return unlikely, despite the close relationship between Abbott and Taylor, reducing the chances of Abbott contesting the byelection in Ley's soon-to-be former seat of Farrer.
Influence on Party Direction
Regardless of whether Abbott returns to parliament, his influence is set to shape the Liberal party's philosophical direction under Taylor's leadership. Taylor has indicated a willingness to move the party further to the right to counter support losses to One Nation.
Abbott's recent comments on immigration policy, referencing the 1950s to 1970s era with expectations of integration and assimilation, align with this shift. Such statements cannot be dismissed as mere commentary from an ex-politician; they reflect Abbott's ongoing impact on the party's agenda.
The reassertion of conservative control means Abbott wields significant influence over the Liberals' future, whether from parliament, party headquarters, or through media engagements. The key question remains: from where will he exert this influence as the party navigates its new conservative era?
