Anthony Albanese asks, "Who is the state Liberal leader?"

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticized the Western Australian Liberal Party’s leadership after federal MP Andrew Hastie publicly rebuked state leader Basil Zempilas over the party’s strategy in the Secret Harbour by‑election, a contest viewed as a major test for One Nation in the state. Albanese said he does not campaign in such elections and questioned the Liberal leader’s dedication, echoing Labor’s assessment that the party had essentially given up the race. The episode underscores growing friction within the WA Liberals, with Hastie accusing the party of surrendering before votes are cast, while Zempilas defended his campaign work and rejected claims of pandering to wealthy donors. One Nation’s state chief noted the criticism might reflect worries about his own seat.