The Liberal Party's first female leader is facing a potential backlash, causing a prominent figure, Charlotte Mortlock, to quit the party. Mortlock, a former staffer and vocal advocate for progressive policies, established Hilma's Network to empower Liberal-minded women. She stepped down as executive director and relinquished her party membership, citing a desire to support women and Australia in different ways. Mortlock's departure comes amid concerns about the party's treatment of women, as the number of female MPs and senators dwindles. The 2022 election review, co-authored by the new deputy leader, Jane Hume, highlighted the party's failure to address female voter concerns. The review recommended a 50% target for female candidates and MPs, but the Liberal Party's management committee dropped this proposal from the agenda. This decision has sparked further criticism, with some women in the party expressing disappointment and a sense of betrayal. The controversy surrounding the ousting of the first female leader and the party's response has raised questions about the future of women's representation and influence within the Liberal Party.
