Liberal leader Sussan Ley has warned the Liberal Party it needs to “respect modern Australia and reflect modern Australia” in her first press conference after securing the top job.

Australia's Liberal Party has elected Sussan Ley as its new leader. She is the first woman ever to helm the party in its 80-year history. Ms Ley replaces Peter Dutton, who stepped down after leading the party to its worst election defeat in history.

Liberal Senator Jane Hume says the elevation of Sussan Ley to leader of the Liberal Party is “groundbreaking” and marks a “new era” for the party.