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Libby Mettam Steps Down as WA Liberal Leader, Basil Zempilas to Seek Leadership

The WA Liberal Party begins a critical leadership transition following its second-worst election defeat, with Mettam aiming for deputy leader and Zempilas confirming his candidacy.

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A composite image of Libby Mettam and Basil Zempilas.
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WA Liberal Leader Libby Mettam steps down from her party’s leadership

Overview

  • Libby Mettam has resigned as WA Liberal leader after acknowledging insufficient support to continue in the role through to the 2029 election.
  • Newly elected Churchlands MLA Basil Zempilas has announced his intention to nominate for the party leadership at a meeting next week.
  • Mettam cited internal instability and leadership speculation in late 2024 as key factors in the party's poor March 8 election performance.
  • The WA Liberal Party retained only six seats in the lower house, marking its second-worst result, while Labor maintained a dominant majority with 44 seats.
  • The upcoming leadership decision will involve both lower house and upper house members, with the party aiming to stabilize and rebuild for the 2029 election.