As new Liberal leader Angus Taylor outlined the themes of his leadership in central Sydney this weekend, his rivals were mobilising in regional NSW, preparing to deliver him a blow.
The timing of the Farrer by-election, triggered by his toppling of Sussan Ley, could hardly be worse for Taylor. It comes before he has had the chance to outline a detailed policy agenda, and as One Nation rises in the polls.
Speaking to the NSW state council on Saturday, Taylor acknowledged a grim — perhaps existential — reality for the party.
“Change, or there will be no Liberal Party. I choose change,” he declared.
