Sussan Ley and the Liberal Party have faced harsh criticism from a former leader over weak direction and leadership amid internal conflict and disappointing polling.
Ms. Ley has been accused of lacking a clear vision for the party's future. As the Liberals approach final decisions on energy and climate policies, turmoil and speculation about leadership have intensified.
Following two weeks of damaging infighting, Ms. Ley has initiated a series of meetings to finalize a fresh approach to energy and emissions reduction.
"She hasn't shown any clear strategy, or any strong capacity in terms of leadership."
John Hewson, a former Liberal leader who left the party in 2019 over climate concerns, described the opposition as lacking serious policies, attributing this to members' limited experience outside politics.
"They haven't got people with significant business experience ... I don't think that they've got people who are policy wonks in economic policy."
"You can't just keep being negative and hoping to win on criticism, as (Tony) Abbott did."
Hewson's comments highlight a perceived deficiency in practical expertise and innovative policy-making within the party, undermining its position on key issues.