Tony Abbott's Return: Rightward Shift for Australia's Liberal Party

Australia's Liberal Party appointed former Prime Minister Tony Abbott as its president, marking a shift to the right. Facing declining support, the party aims to regain power against growing populism from the One Nation party. Abbott, known for his conservative stance, is set to revitalize the party's strategy.

The struggling opposition Liberal Party in Australia has named former Prime Minister Tony Abbott as its president, signaling a clear shift to the right as it attempts to claw back power. Abbott, known for his hardline conservative views, is expected to reinvigorate the party's approach.

Once a dominant force in Australian politics, the Liberal Party has faced significant turmoil following substantial election losses in 2022 and 2025. The losses have paved the way for a rising populist right, led by the One Nation party, posing a significant challenge to the Liberal Party's traditional base.

Abbott’s appointment comes as the party grapples with an identity crisis. A poll highlights the challenging landscape, suggesting a drop to just 12 seats in the federal parliament if an election were held today. With Abbott at the helm, the Liberal Party hopes to reestablish itself as a formidable right-wing force.