In a significant shift in the political landscape, Vaucluse MP Kellie Sloane has ascended to the leadership of the NSW Liberal Party. This development follows the resignation of Mark Speakman, who had been the subject of weeks-long speculation regarding his political future.

The unanimous decision came during a brief party room meeting earlier today. Opposition whips Adam Crouch and Chris Rath announced Sloane’s election after shadow attorney-general and Wahroonga MP Alister Henskens decided to withdraw from the leadership contest, clearing the path for Sloane’s uncontested victory.

Notably, Deputy Leader Natalie Ward retained her position, marking a historic moment for the party with the establishment of its first all-female leadership team. This milestone reflects the party’s evolving dynamics and commitment to diverse representation.

Expressing her gratitude and readiness to tackle the challenges ahead, Sloane addressed reporters outside the party room. “Being endorsed as the new leader by a united Liberal Party room is an incredible honor and a huge responsibility,” she stated. “I am prepared to take on this role and work diligently for our party and the people we represent.”

“A few moments ago, a united Liberal Party room endorsed me as the new leader, and it’s an incredible honour, a huge responsibility, one I don’t take lightly,” she told reporters outside the party room,” she said.

“I’m ready to work for New South Wales, and I thank my colleagues for the faith and the trust that they’ve placed in me today.”

The new leader will hold a press conference later today.

Sloane has had a quick rise to the top after only being a little over two years into her first term as Vaucluse MP and shadow health minister.

Speakman endorsed her leadership when he resigned yesterday afternoon, telling the media that she had approached him for the role. 

“Kellie Sloane will be a fantastic leader if selected by the parliamentary Liberal Party,” he said.

“She is someone of enormous talent. She is not only a great communicator, she has extensive experience as a businesswoman.

“She is someone I hope will lead the Liberal Party to the next election. She will have my full support. She will have my endorsement.”

Speakman was ousted just days after his Victorian counterpart, Brad Battin, also lost his position in a leadership spill.

He said his colleagues wanted “renewal and regeneration” after previously denying his role was up for grabs.