A growing number of Liberal MPs are expressing concerns about Opposition Leader Angus Taylor’s leadership amid criticism of his stance on multiculturalism and the Coalition’s declining support. The unrest follows Taylor’s reluctance to clearly affirm his commitment to multiculturalism, drawing rebuke from within his party and from state leaders.

Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff, Australia’s longest-serving Liberal government leader, strongly rejected the nationalist views of One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, who recently called for Australia to adopt a monocultural identity. Hanson warned that multiculturalism was incompatible with national unity, advocating instead for a singular cultural framework. Rockliff countered that such a model undermines fundamental freedoms, emphasizing Tasmania’s tradition of diversity and individual paths.

Taylor initially declined to clarify his position on multiculturalism during a recent media appearance but subsequently stated he supported a “version” of multiculturalism based on shared Australian values. Speaking on 2GB radio, Taylor said immigrants must commit to the country’s legal system, freedoms, and parliamentary democracy. He distinguished his approach from what he described as Labor’s more permissive multicultural policy, asserting the need to exclude those whose beliefs conflict with Australian values. He referenced security concerns, citing recent events such as the Bondi incident.

Despite Taylor’s attempts to define his stance, Liberal MPs remain privately critical of his leadership, particularly his effectiveness in countering both Labor and the growing influence of One Nation ahead of the upcoming federal election, expected within two years. The Coalition’s primary vote is currently at a record low 18 percent, levels last seen before the departure of former minister Sussan Ley, raising concerns about the party’s electoral viability.

Several MPs suggest Taylor’s time to reverse the party’s fortunes could be limited to six to twelve months unless he implements a more aggressive and coherent political strategy. There is speculation that any leadership challenge would likely emerge from the party’s right faction, with Andrew Hastie named as a potential contender, despite his recent withdrawal from leadership contention and involvement in controversial matters.

Moderate faction members have also identified Tim Wilson as a possible alternative leader if Taylor’s performance does not improve, particularly in media engagements. Some MPs emphasize the importance of party unity in the near term but acknowledge the necessity for Taylor to deliver tangible results to restore confidence.

Conversely, a number of Liberals defended Taylor’s leadership, calling for patience to allow him to consolidate support and improve the Coalition’s standing. Nonetheless, the party remains under pressure to respond effectively to both internal scrutiny and external political challenges as it prepares for the next federal election.