Andrew Hirst, the Liberal Party's longest-serving federal director in decades and the mastermind behind the Coalition's stunning 2019 'miracle election' victory, has announced his resignation from the party's top organisational position.
Departure Confirmed After Nearly Nine Years
Hirst confirmed on Thursday that he will step down from his role as Federal Director and has formally notified Federal President Jon Olsen of his decision to resign. He stated that the timing was appropriate 'to hand over to new organisational leadership and allow for a seamless transition' within the party structure.
He will officially conclude his duties in June, following the Liberal Party's next Federal Council meeting. The Farrer by-election on May 9, which will replace former Opposition Leader Sussan Ley, is scheduled to be his final campaign as federal director.
A Legacy of Campaign Leadership
'It has been an enormous honour to serve as Federal Director for close to nine years,' Hirst declared, expressing gratitude to the staff, campaigners, and volunteers who supported him across the nation.
Appointed to the federal director position in 2016, Hirst became a pivotal figure in modern Liberal Party campaigning strategy. During his tenure, he directed three federal election campaigns and collaborated with five different party leaders, navigating through periods of internal division and an increasingly challenging electoral environment.
The 2019 'Miracle Election' Triumph
His most celebrated achievement occurred in 2019 when he managed the national campaign under then Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Despite widespread predictions of a Labor victory and contrary to every opinion poll, the Coalition secured a third term in what became famously known as 'the miracle election.'
In his resignation statement, Hirst praised Morrison's leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic, noting that the former Prime Minister guided Australia through 'the most challenging of circumstances.'
Working Through Leadership Transitions
Hirst's directorship spanned the leadership periods of Malcolm Turnbull, Peter Dutton, Sussan Ley, and Angus Taylor. He maintained close working relationships with each leader as the party confronted internal disagreements and a more hostile political landscape.
Despite recent election disappointments, Hirst asserted that the Liberal Party possesses substantial foundations to build upon, though he acknowledged 'significant challenges that must be confronted with renewed energy and determination.'
Confidence in Current Leadership
He expressed strong confidence in current leader Angus Taylor and Deputy Leader Jane Hume, describing them as 'the custodians of our Party.'
In a joint statement released on Thursday, Taylor and Hume commended Hirst's service as director. 'We have worked closely with Andrew over a number of years, and we've always valued his steady judgment, professionalism, and commitment to the Party,' they stated.
'He has taken on demanding roles during some very tough campaigns, in the 2013 election campaign, and again in 2019, where he was crucial in delivering a result few thought possible - and he's done so with resilience and integrity. We thank Andrew sincerely for his service and for the support he has shown to colleagues across the Party.'
Continued Involvement as Volunteer
Hirst pledged to remain actively involved as a volunteer, promising to continue distributing how-to-vote cards on polling days 'for many years to come.'
His departure marks a significant transition period for the Liberal Party as it attempts to rebuild following the 2025 election loss and prepares for the next federal contest. The search for his successor will be closely watched as the party seeks to regain electoral momentum.
