'It's time to leave shit behind': Mark Parton's plan to lead unified Liberals to government | Region Canberra

“It’s time to leave shit behind”: Mark Parton’s plan to lead unified Liberals to government

Mark Parton and Deborah Morris addressed the media after being elected as the new leadership team of the Canberra Liberals.

Parton stated that he and Morris are committed to leading a unified party into the 2028 election.

“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.”

He emphasized the need to unite all nine parliamentary members and focus on challenging the government in 2028.

Parton acknowledged recent divisions within the party, noting that former leaders Leanne Castley and Jeremy Hanson stepped down, creating an opportunity for unity.

“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.”

He believes the division was not ideological, but rather a matter of attitude and approach.

Parton, widely regarded as the party’s best media performer, has previously been seen as leadership material but either lacked support or chose not to pursue the role.

Mark Parton’s leadership signals a shift toward unity and forward momentum for the Canberra Liberals, aiming to move past internal disputes and focus on the next election.

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Region Canberra Region Canberra — 2025-11-10

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