Mark Parton elected new leader of the Canberra Liberals
Mark Parton MLA has been chosen as the new leader of the Canberra Liberals, with Deborah Morris MLA appointed as his deputy. The leadership transition follows the resignation of Leanne Castley and Jeremy Hanson, who stepped down earlier today.
“The decision was intended to give the party the best possible chance of success in the 2028 election,”
A Party Room meeting was held where neither Castley nor Hanson contested the positions. Parton, elected to the Legislative Assembly in 2016, accepted the leadership with the unanimous endorsement of colleagues. Morris joined the Assembly last year.
“With support from all elected members, I can announce that I have accepted the position,” said Parton. “I would like to thank Leanne Castley and Jeremy Hanson for their work over the last 12 months. It’s vital that we continue to strengthen the cohesion within our Party. By encouraging open dialogue, valuing diverse perspectives, and finding common ground, we can reinforce our shared purpose. Our priority remains clear: continue building an alternative government that delivers for the ACT.”
Following his election, Parton resigned as Speaker of the Legislative Assembly. A new Speaker will be chosen in December, with ACT Greens MLA Andrew Braddock serving as Deputy Speaker until then. Castley became party leader after the 2024 election, succeeding Elizabeth Lee.
Author’s summary:
Mark Parton becomes Canberra Liberals leader after the resignations of Leanne Castley and Jeremy Hanson, pledging unity and focus ahead of the 2028 election.