Coalition defence spokesman Angus Taylor has resigned from the Opposition frontbench, sending shockwaves through Canberra and setting the stage for a direct leadership showdown with Liberal leader Sussan Ley. Angus Taylor (pictured) resigned from the Opposition Shadow front bench on WednesdayThe resignation opens the path for a challenge against Liberal leader Sussan Ley (pictured)The conservative faction of the Liberal Party has united behind Taylor after fellow leadership candidate Angus Taylor withdrew from the contest. Treasurer Jim Chalmers criticised Taylor by reading out negative quotes from news articles, reportedly made by fellow Liberal MPs. 'He was an absolute disaster in that role,' Chalmers said, quoting a Liberal MP on Angus Taylor's tenure as Shadow Treasurer. 'I am absolutely committed to restoring confidence in the Liberal Party, to ensure that Australians regain confidence in the Liberal Party and steering the Liberal Party back to where it needs to be,' he said.

Source: Daily Mail February 11, 2026 12:34 UTC