Australia’s new PM promises “every single Australian” will have say on same

Former Liberal Party leader and Communications Minister Malcolm Turnbull asked Abbott to open the party’s leadership to an internal vote as the two-year-old conservative coalition government struggles in opinion polls.

Shortly before Turnbull was sworn in, Abbott, who lost the ballot 54-45 Monday night, thanked the public and his family for the opportunity to serve the nation.

Mr Turnbull has promised “a new style of leadership”, citing Menzies, “small L liberalism” and instilling greater weight in traditional Cabinet processes which have, perhaps, not been seen since John Howard’s tenure.

The 60-year-old ex-banker, lawyer and journalist told reporters he was “filled with optimism” as he headed for his swearing-in ceremony.

Turnbull, a Rhodes Scholar who previously led the Australian Republican Movement, was sworn in by Governor General Sir Peter Cosgrove, the representative of Britain’s Queen Elizabeth, Australia’s head of state.

Those differences are expected to be highlighted later this week when Turnbull announces his new cabinet.

Dr Williams said the act of politicians usurping their chosen leader in their first term of government was “becoming a far too frequent occurrence”, which continues to threaten the public’s confidence in democracy.

However, the foreign minister denied claims that she was one of Abbott’s ministers to turn on his leadership. “There will be no wrecking, no undermining and no sniping”, Abbott said.

“The Prime Minister of Australia is not a president”.

The early numbers in Mr Turnbull’s favour come after he faced his first revolt with three Nationals crossing the floor of the Senate to vote against the government.

Turnbull praised Abbott’s free-trade agreements and immigration policies just hours after condemning Abbott’s economic management and challenging him for the leadership of the Liberal Party and the premiership. Turnbull had previously criticized the move, arguing that the issue should be settled before the election, but has now confirmed that he won’t be altering Abbott’s plan.

Mr Shorten mentioned that Mr Abbott was a “fighter”.

‘Australia needs a change of government and Labor will be up for the fight no matter who the Liberal party select, ‘ he said. “The climate policy is one that I think has been very well designed”, he said.

The Financial Review said the Liberal Party was ripping itself apart “amid scenes of carnage”.

In addition to reviving the country’s economy, Turnbull also faces challenges, including from many within his party, over Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions cuts, which have been denounced as “vastly inadequate”.