Andrew Hirst will step down as federal director of the Liberal Party following May Farrer’s by-election after nearly nine years in the role, marking the end of a period that has involved multiple election campaigns and leadership changes.
Hirst, who previously advised several Liberal party leaders, including Tony Abbott when he was prime minister, said he had informed the party’s federal president of his decision to resign before the next election.
He described the role as “a great honour” but added “now is the right time to hand over to the new leadership of the organization and allow for a seamless transition ahead of the next federal election”.
Hirst also paid tribute to the leaders he served under, including Malcolm Turnbull, Scott Morrison, Peter Dutton, Sussan Ley and Angus Taylor, saying history would “judge Scott well” for leading the country through difficult times.
He said despite the setbacks, the party had delivered key organizational reforms, including eliminating debt, strengthening funding and improving digital operations, but warned “significant challenges” remained that would require “new energy and determination”.
The president of the federation John Olsen thanked Hirst for his “commitment, honesty, professionalism and selfless service”, saying that his tenure was characterized by a “calm, clear mind” and a strategic approach, as Hirst confirmed that he would officially conclude in June after the next meeting of the federal council.
