Former Canberra Liberals leader Leanne Castley resigns, citing 'toxic culture'

Leanne Castley, the former leader of the Canberra Liberals, has resigned from the party, declaring she has "had enough of being part of an organisation with such a toxic culture." Castley announced she will sit as an independent for the remainder of her term.

In a statement, Castley detailed her negative experiences within the party over the past 18 months, which she described as including "bullying, intimidation, lies, and even a threat of physical assault." She stated, "I can no longer be part of an organisation which tolerates this conduct." She characterized the decision as difficult but ultimately the right one for herself and her constituents in Yerrabi.

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In the last 18 months, I have experienced bullying, intimidation, lies, and even a threat of physical assault.

Castley expressed pride in her work on introducing coercive control legislation, emphasizing it aligns with community expectations for politicians. This focus on legislative action is where she intends to dedicate her remaining time in office.

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I can no longer be part of an organisation which tolerates this conduct.

Her departure follows a period of significant leadership changes within the Canberra Liberals. Castley herself stepped down as leader just seven months prior, with Mark Parton taking over. Deputy leader Jeremy Hanson also resigned his position at that time. Castley and Hanson had assumed their roles in October 2024, following Labor's election victory.

Castley's tenure as leader was marked by controversy, including criticism for decisions that led to the suspension of Elizabeth Lee and Peter Cain from the party room after they crossed the floor on a vote. Their suspension was later revoked by Parton. Castley's time as opposition leader was the second-shortest in the ACT's history.

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That’s what the community wants to see from its politicians and that’s what I want to spend my time on.