Mark Parton's Vision to Lead Unified Canberra Liberals
New Canberra Liberals Leader Mark Parton and his deputy, Deborah Morris, have pledged to unite the party as they prepare for the 2028 election. Speaking to the media after their election, Parton expressed frustration with internal disputes overshadowing important issues for voters.
“I’m absolutely sick to death of having conversations about internal party matters because I can tell you that people out in the suburbs are not having those conversations.”
Parton emphasized his mission alongside Morris to bring the nine parliamentary members together with a common goal to challenge the government in 2028. He acknowledged past party divisions but credited former leaders Leanne Castley and Jeremy Hanson for stepping aside to allow a fresh start.
Party Unity Over Ideology
Parton rejected the idea that ideological differences caused splits within the party. Instead, he described the division as one between those who hold on to past conflicts and those ready to move forward.
“I think in recent months my party’s been divided by a line that separates people who hang on to shit and people who leave shit behind, and it is time to leave shit behind.”
As one of the party’s strongest communicators, Parton has long been a potential leader but only now has secured the opportunity to lead.
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Mark Parton aims to unify the Canberra Liberals, focusing on forward momentum and leaving internal conflicts behind to strengthen their 2028 election campaign.