Liberal deputy leader Louise Asher makes way for ‘generational change’

BRIGHTON Liberal MP Louise Asher says “it’s time” - time to take a step back from deputy leadership and a step towards generational change.

Louise Asher has stood down as deputy leader of the Liberal Party after 11 years to make way for ‘generational change’. Picture: Tanya Fry.

TO BORROW a Labor mantra, Brighton state Liberal MP Louise Asher says “it’s time” – time to take a step back from deputy leadership and time-punishing portfolios, but a step towards generational change in her beloved party.

Ms Asher revealed last week she was going to the backbench after the Liberal Party’s loss in last month’s election.

She said she would have relinquished her position regardless of who took power.

“I think it is appropriate to let the next generation take over,” Ms Asher said.

“I have had a phenomenal career really, (and) been in senior positions for so long – to try and hang on would be undignified, and I wouldn’t want to do that.”

Ms Asher said she knew the writing was on the wall for the party after pre-polling at railway stations and community sites around her electorate predicted a swing against her.

“If there was going to be a swing in Brighton, then there was going to be a swing everywhere,” she said.

“I knew we would lose.”

The 58-year-old’s list of achievements are long and notable, and are nationally and internationally recognised.

Ms Asher was an instrumental player in the large-scale rebuilding of Brighton Secondary College and the reopening of the New St gates.

In her many Cabinet positions, she has successfully negotiated Grand Prix contracts, and furthered Melbourne’s position as the place to be.

With more time on her hands, she said she would remain a focal point for the new blood in her party.

“I will represent from the backbench, hold the government to account, and, personally, see more of my husband, which I am very happy about,” she said.