In a significant shift for the WA Liberal Party, Libby Mettam has confirmed her resignation following the party's disappointing election results earlier this month. The March 8, 2025 poll revealed that the Liberals had won just six seats in the lower house, marking a substantial setback for the party, which has struggled against Labor's dominance for years. Mettam stated in a press release, "I had private conversations with my colleagues but it is very clear that my colleagues were seeking a new direction ... and I certainly respect that position," underscoring the pressing need for change within the party leadership.
With Mettam stepping down, the spotlight now falls on Basil Zempilas, the current Lord Mayor of Perth and a prominent media personality, who has confirmed his intention to take over the leadership role. "I am prepared to put my name forward. I am prepared to be considered by those in the party room," Zempilas announced, expressing his readiness to lead the party in these turbulent times.
The upcoming vote, slated for March 25, 2025, will decide Zempilas's fate as the new leader. He acknowledges the challenges ahead, especially given the inexperience of the current lower house team. "We’re under no illusions — this is an inexperienced lower house team when we step into parliament. I’m very pleased that Libby is going to be there with us. That is hugely important," he said on Thursday. His previous victories in local government, securing a promising seat in Churchlands, reflect both his popularity and the pressing expectations upon his leadership.
In the wake of heavy losses, Mettam reflected on her tenure and the factors that influenced the electoral outcome. "While I take responsibility for our result, it is very clear that the constant and ongoing leadership speculation and destabilisation in late 2024 was a significant contributing factor to our outcome," she remarked, emphasizing her belief that a stable leadership structure is critical as the party approaches the next state election in 2029.
Furthermore, Mettam expressed hope for her future role within the party, indicating her intention to pursue a deputy leadership position when the party room meets. She has been seen as a stabilizing force within the party, and her experience is expected to be invaluable in fostering continuity as Zempilas takes the helm.
The recent election results have indeed prompted a reevaluation within party ranks, with Mettam stating, "This announcement gives my colleagues time to turn their thoughts to other leadership alternatives and ensures that continued speculation about my leadership doesn’t distract from our party’s federal election campaign." The electoral defeat, underscored by a significant 18 percent swing against Labor, did not translate into seat gains for the Liberals, adding pressure to the party's leadership dynamics.
Zempilas, in his new position, faces the daunting challenge of navigating a political environment that has not been favorable to the WA Liberals. His recent victory in Churchlands, while a personal triumph, came with its criticisms; he secured only a marginal increase of 0.5 percent in the primary vote, leaving him with a narrow margin as one of the least secure seats in the state.
As he prepares to assume leadership, Zempilas has acknowledged the importance of drawing from Mettam's insights and experience. "Libby’s experience is going to be really important. I think that is enormously beneficial to me or whoever it might be who leads the Liberal Party into the future," he stated confidently.
Reflecting on the road ahead, Zempilas's history as an effective communicator and as a leader during his tenure as Lord Mayor may work in his favor. He has a track record of advocating for known issues in Perth, displaying a commitment to the communities he serves, which many within the party hope could translate into effective opposition strategies against the Labor government.
In addition to navigating internal challenges, Zempilas will need to contend with the ongoing scrutiny from the electorate and perhaps an even tougher campaign from Labor, which has shown its appetite to leverage any vulnerabilities. Nevertheless, if Zempilas can establish credibility and a clear vision, some believe he may lay down the foundation for a revival of the party.
With the looming leadership vote, the WA Liberal Party stands at a critical juncture, and the stakes could not be higher. As Mettam remarked, "We’re all on a steep learning curve, and clearly the make-up of the Lower House for the Liberal Party, there is going to be a number of first-timers and that’s why it’s so important that Libby is there with us." The acknowledgment of the precarious position may galvanize support for Zempilas as well as underlining the importance of experience as the party seeks to rebuild.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on Mettam's pursuit of deputy leadership and Zempilas's upcoming confirmation as leader. The decisions made in the coming days are pivotal; they will not only outline the immediate political landscape but also set the tone for WA Liberal Party's future in a challenging electoral environment.
