Basil Zempilas elected new WA Liberal leader

25 / 03 / 2025

Basil Zempilas and his deputy Libby Mettam arrive at parliament for a Liberal party room meeting. (ABC News: Keane Bourke) — Basil Zempilas and his deputy Libby Mettam arrive at parliament for a Liberal party room meeting. Photo: ABC News: Keane Bourke.

Basil Zempilas, a former broadcaster and Perth Lord Mayor, has been elected unopposed as the new leader of the Western Australian Liberal Party.

Zempilas’ election follows the party’s significant defeat in the recent state election and the subsequent resignation of former leader Libby Mettam, who will now serve as deputy leader.

Zempilas, who secured the seat of Churchlands by a narrow margin, emphasised the need for a “total reset” of the party and pledged to listen to the community to rebuild support.

basil zempilas — Basil Zempilas. Photo: The West Australian.

“This is a new look Liberal Party of Western Australia,” he declared. “A reset is underway and the road to 2029 begins today.”

The party’s recent electoral performance has been disappointing, with the Liberals securing only six out of 59 lower house seats.

Zempilas’ leadership marks a new chapter as the party aims to regain its footing in Western Australian politics.

Source: ABC News

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