Deputy opposition leader Jane Hume says the Coalition must rebuild trust with Australians and demonstrate it is a “genuine and credible” alternative to the Labor government following months of internal instability.
Speaking on ABC News Breakfast, Hume acknowledged that both the Labor government and the Coalition had damaged voter confidence, pointing to the opposition’s recent period of division and reconciliation.
“Our job now is to demonstrate that we are a genuine and credible alternative to this terrible Labor government,” Hume said.
Coalition Focuses on Rebuilding Confidence
Hume said restoring trust would be a key task for the opposition as it seeks to strengthen its position with voters.
Her comments come after the Coalition experienced a period of public fracturing before reuniting in recent months, an episode she suggested had affected public confidence.
While criticising Labor, Hume also accepted that the Coalition had its own responsibility to regain voter trust.
Support for Tony Abbott’s New Role
Hume welcomed Tony Abbott’s presidency of the Liberal Party, describing the development as a positive opportunity for the party and the broader Coalition.
“He’s a great supporter of the party, he’s a great supporter of Angus Taylor, I think this is a great opportunity,” she said.
Hume said the Liberal Party’s strength came from accommodating a range of views within the organisation.
“The Liberal party has always been what John Howard called the broad church: we like having different opinions.”
“We listen to everybody’s views, and we represent them.”
The comments underscore the Coalition’s efforts to present a united front while rebuilding support ahead of future political contests.