UPDATE: In a significant political shift, Kellie Sloane, a former Channel Nine star, has been elected as the new leader of the NSW Liberal Party. This unanimous decision was confirmed at a party meeting earlier today, November 20, 2025, as the party aims to regain its footing ahead of the crucial 2027 election.
Sloane’s rise to leadership comes after the resignation of her predecessor, Mark Speakman, who stepped down amid increasing pressure following a disastrous federal election for the Liberals. Sloane’s election marks a pivotal moment for the party, which has faced significant challenges in recent years, including dwindling support and negative polling trends.
At just 52 years old, Sloane brings a wealth of experience from her previous career in journalism and broadcasting, having worked for major networks including Nine, Seven, and the ABC. She transitioned to politics after serving as a mother of three and a leader for the non-profit organization Life Education NSW. Elected as the MP for Vaucluse in the 2023 state election, Sloane quickly ascended to the opposition frontbench under Speakman.
The election was largely anticipated, especially after former conservative candidate Alister Henskens withdrew from the race, leaving Sloane unopposed. Natalie Ward will continue as deputy leader, supporting Sloane as they face the daunting task of revitalizing the party’s image.
As the second woman to assume leadership of a state Liberal party this week, following Jess Wilson‘s election in Victoria, Sloane is part of a growing trend towards female leadership in Australian politics. However, she faces an uphill battle; no first-term opposition has won an election in NSW or federally since the 1930s. Current polls indicate that the coalition could lose even more seats to Labor if an election were held today.
Election analyst Ben Raue stated, “They are in a pretty dire spot at the moment. It’s a very easy mechanical change to make, to sack someone and replace them with someone else, but unless that is the specific reason why you’re unpopular, it’s not going to change anything.”
Sloane’s leadership will be crucial as she teams up with newly elected Nationals leader Gurmesh Singh, who was appointed unopposed earlier this week. With the next NSW election scheduled for March 2027, all eyes will be on how Sloane navigates the challenges ahead.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops and the political landscape in NSW continues to evolve.
