Former Coalition leader Sussan Ley reflects on US Greyhound journey and Australian multiculturalism

Following a 276-day tenure as the Coalition’s inaugural female leader, Sussan Ley was dismissed from the opposition role and embarked on a cross-country Greyhound trip across the United States. In her first post-politics interview, she portrayed America as a divided nation with a pronounced gap between ordinary citizens and the political class, observing homeless travelers, former prisoners, veterans and nuns sharing cramped buses.

Ley contrasted this with Australia’s multicultural framework, arguing that the country succeeds by allowing diverse communities to coexist without erasing differences. She noted the continued growth of One Nation and Pauline Hanson’s controversial statements, though she stopped short of labeling the party’s approach as wrong. Ley affirmed her pride in her political achievements, announced she will not seek a return to office, and expressed a desire to contribute to public life for the benefit of her grandchildren. The interview aired on one outlet’s 7.30 program.