Former Liberal frontbencher Julian Leeser MP has been appointed Shadow Minister for Education and Early Learning, marking a return to the Coalition’s frontbench after a year on the backbench.
Mr Leeser, the Member for Berowra, is widely regarded as one of the party’s strongest policy thinkers and a long-time advocate for the transformative power of education. His appointment signals a renewed focus by the Opposition on schools, universities and skills training as key drivers of Australia’s economic and social future.
In a statement, Universities Australia Chief Executive Luke Sheehy congratulated Mr Leeser on his new role, noting his deep understanding of the value of education and research to national prosperity.
“Mr Leeser has long understood the value of education and research to Australia’s future,” Mr Sheehy said. “We look forward to working closely with him and the Coalition to strengthen universities’ contribution to Australia’s prosperity, skills and national capability.”
Mr Leeser’s appointment comes as part of a broader reshuffle within the Coalition’s shadow cabinet, with Senator Johnathon Duniam moving into the Home Affairs portfolio and Ms Zoe McKenzie MP taking on the role of Shadow Assistant Minister for Education.
Mr Sheehy thanked Senator Duniam for his work as Shadow Minister for Education and Early Learning, describing him as a strong supporter of the higher education sector, and welcomed Ms McKenzie’s appointment, noting her long-standing advocacy for international students.
The Opposition’s new education team takes shape at a time when Australia’s universities and schools face major challenges — from funding and research reform to workforce shortages and a rapidly evolving international education landscape.
Mr Leeser’s elevation is seen as an opportunity to bring renewed focus and depth to national education policy discussions, with observers expecting him to take an active role in shaping the Coalition’s position on higher education, skills and early learning reform ahead of the next federal election.
