She thanked the people of her electorate and the Liberal party in her opening press conference on May 30, saying she “draws strength” from them.
“I want to say I will continue to be a strong voice for rural and regional Australia,” she said.
“The Liberal party brand inspires me and is equally effective and belongs everywhere across our great country, whether it be in the cities or the bush.”
Ms Ley acknowledged the lack of support from women for the Liberals, who have lost a number of seats across the country to the Greens, Labor and “teal independents”.
“We know we didn't receive the support of all women at the last election,” she said.
“My message to the women of Australia is ‘we hear you, we heard you. We're listening, we're talking. And we are determined to earn back your trust and your faith’."
She praised Mr Dutton for his leadership and his work on child safety both “behind the scenes” and out in the community.
“Thank you Peter for your leadership to date and say you are absolutely the best person for this job,” she said.
“We have been colleagues and close friends for over 20 years. and I want to commend all of the work that you’ve done, you’ve been very modest in your self assessment.”
Mr Dutton said he possessed the “strength of character and relentless resolve” of a prime minister and will bring those traits to the job.
“I owe everything of course to my family, to my friends to my community and of course to the Liberal party and my colleagues for the incredible honour to be standing with you today.”
It comes as David Littleproud takes over from Barnaby Joyce as the new Nationals leader.
Ms Ley held the seat of Farrer with more than 67 per cent of votes on a two candidate preferred basis, according to the Australian Electoral Commission. In Moama, the MP secured 60 per cent of first preferences.
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