CANBERRA – The nomination of former Prime Minister Tony Abbott as the new federal Liberal Party president signals a potentially alarming shift further to the right for the party, raising concerns about the impact on social progress and inclusive policies. Abbott’s nomination, proposed by Charlie Taylor, brother of opposition leader Angus Taylor, comes seven years after he lost his seat of Warringah, marking a return to the political frontlines for a figure known for his conservative stance.

Abbott’s unchallenged nomination – former Foreign Minister Alexander Downer is instead vying for a vice-president position – means he is set to succeed John Olsen at the upcoming Liberal Party federal council meeting in Melbourne. While the party presidency is ostensibly an unpaid administrative role focused on organizational infrastructure, many fear that Abbott's involvement will provide an opportunity to exert considerable influence on policy direction, particularly regarding immigration and social issues, potentially undermining progress made towards a more inclusive Australia.

Critics highlight Abbott’s past policies and rhetoric as indicative of his potential impact. His tenure as Prime Minister was marked by controversial decisions, including cuts to social services, a hardline stance on asylum seekers, and resistance to meaningful action on climate change. The prospect of Abbott wielding significant power within the Liberal Party raises concerns about a potential rollback of progressive initiatives and a deepening of social inequality.

Moderate voices within the Liberal Party have expressed unease about Abbott’s nomination, fearing that he will act as a de facto leader and pull the party further to the right, creating division within Angus Taylor’s parliamentary team. The concerns are further amplified by the circumstances surrounding the nomination, with some suggesting that Angus Taylor would be unwise to endorse the move, reflecting a deeper internal struggle within the party.

Abbott attempted to downplay concerns at the Sydney Writers’ Festival, stating his desire to assist Angus Taylor in becoming Prime Minister. However, his track record suggests a willingness to push his own agenda, potentially overriding the stated goals of the parliamentary leader.

"I am thinking about doing everything I can to help Angus Taylor to be the 32nd prime minister of Australia,” Abbott said. “I think that the best thing that I can do towards that is to help him, by, if the coming Federal Council so chooses, being the President of the party.”