South Australian Liberal Party Leader Resigns

David Speirs has resigned as leader of the Opposition in SA. Courtesy of the SA Liberal Party

South Australian Liberal Party Leader David Speirs has stepped down from his position 19 months out from the next state election.

Speirs cited spending “more quality time” with family and friends as the reason for resigning from the leadership.

“I have used the mid-winter break to reflect on my priorities and to speak with family and friends at length about my future. Ultimately, I want to spend more quality time with them and the demands of the role as Leader makes this difficult,” Speirs said.

“With just over 18 months until the next state election, I feel now is the right time to depart from the role and give the next Leader the best possible opportunity to succeed in 2026.”

The Liberal member for Black, 39, will continue to represent his electorate, where he was elected in 2014.

Speirs said he was proud of what he achieved as leader, including spearheading a rebuild following the “devastating” 2022 state election loss.

“This has included reconnecting with regional South Australians, those in the suburbs, and working closely with communities and industry groups to support strong policy development, on track to be announced well ahead of 2026,” he said.

“To be able to go from an overseas migrant who settled in the southern suburbs of Adelaide as a teenager, to become the Leader of the South Australian Liberal Party, is something I am immensely proud of, and highlights the incredible opportunities available to all South Australians in this remarkable state.”

Speirs said it had been an absolutely privilege and honour to serve as leader.

New Leader to Be Decided Within Days

A party room meeting to decide on a new leader will be held on Aug. 12.

The Epoch Times understands experienced Deputy Liberal Leader John Gardner and Vincent Tarzia could be considering a tilt for the top job.

SA Labor Premier Peter Malinauskas acknowledged and thanked Speirs for his service, adding “being leader of the Opposition is a really difficult job.”

“In a way that isn’t always publicly facing, Premiers and the Leaders of the Opposition have to engage in a range of matters that occur from time to time,” told reporters at a press conference in Adelaide.

“I’m very grateful for David Speirs, we had a professional relationship on a range of matters. I’ve always enjoyed a really good professional cordial relations with David Speirs, I’ve got some regard for him as an individual.”

The SA Liberals thanked Speirs for his leadership of the party. “We are grateful for your hard work and commitment to the people of SA and we look forward to your ongoing contributions in your electorate and the party,” the party said on X. 

The next South Australian state election is due on March 21, 2026.