I wish to congratulate Sussan Ley as the newly appointed Leader of the Liberal Party, and Ted O’Brien as Deputy Leader.

While I am disappointed Angus Taylor was not elected Leader, I respect the decision made by my colleagues within the party room today.

I was contesting the position of Deputy Leader on a ticket with Angus Taylor, and given the outcome with respect to the position of Leader of the Liberal Party, I chose not to contest the position of Deputy Leader.

I recognise that I am new to the Party, and am grateful that our Party is one that afforded me the opportunity to consider putting myself forward for the position of Deputy Leader in those circumstances.

Ultimately, I want the best outcome for all Australians – that is why I entered politics, and why I continue to serve as a member of the Australian Parliament.

So while the outcome today is not the one that I would have wanted, it in no way lessens my commitment to the Liberal Party and the broader Coalition. Nor does the outcome lessen my resolve to rebuild and strengthen the Liberal Party.

If the Coalition is to offer hope and a way forward for our nation, unity must prevail more within us now more than ever. That is why I will work with Sussan Ley and Ted O’Brien to ensure the Coalition is a formidable Opposition to the Albanese Labor government, and presents a compelling alternative to the Australian public at the next election.