Leanne Castley Quits Canberra Liberals, Citing Bullying and Physical Threat
"I have simply had enough."
Canberra MLA and former Liberal leader Leanne Castley has resigned from the party, announcing she will sit as an independent for the remainder of her term. Castley cited a toxic culture within the party, including bullying, intimidation, lies, and a specific threat of physical assault over the past 18 months.
Castley stated she has referred the physical threat to the party and is still considering whether to involve police. She described the environment as untenable, saying she had reached her limit.
Current Liberal leader Mark Parton denied the existence of a toxic culture, describing the party's internal environment as "robust." However, he said that all concerns raised are treated seriously and declined to comment on specific individual matters.
Background:
- Castley served as party leader from October 2024 to November 2025.
- She was succeeded by Mark Parton after stepping down from the leadership.
- Following the leadership change, Deputy Jeremy Hanson also stepped down. Deborah Morris was subsequently appointed as deputy.