Liberals Consider Gender Quotas Amidst Internal Debate

A proposal for the Liberal party to consider introducing gender quotas has ignited internal debate, despite party leader Angus Taylor's immediate dismissal of the idea. A discussion paper, circulated among supporters, canvassed various options to address the party's aging membership and engagement with diverse communities, including gender quotas.

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I’ve never supported any quotas at all, but what I do support, what I do support is more great people joining the Liberal party and more great people, women and from all sorts of backgrounds.

Taylor stated on Thursday that he has "never supported any quotas at all," emphasizing his preference for "more great people joining the Liberal party and more great people, women and from all sorts of backgrounds." However, his deputy, Jane Hume, quickly intervened, suggesting that "all of the options that are put out there" would be considered as the paper is "up for discussion right now."

Shadow cabinet minister Anne Ruston took a stronger stance, urging the party to act with "urgency." She told Guardian Australia that "listening isn't enough" and that the party needs to "act on what we're hearing, with urgency." Ruston had previously stated on Wednesday that the party's current situation is not effective, pointing to the low number of female representatives in the House of Representatives. She argued that if such a discussion paper is released, "everything should be on the table."

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This is a draft report. It’s up for discussion right now, and we’ll consider all of the options that are put out there.

Some Liberals have downplayed the review's significance, with one MP calling it "ridiculous" and questioning its relevance given political shifts since the 2025 election. Former MP Jason Falinski suggested the review should also explore ideas for regaining support among young men, citing Ron DeSantis's approach with the Republicans.

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Every review is only as good as what gets implemented afterwards … we’re at a critical juncture so listening isn’t enough. We need to act on what we’re hearing, with urgency.