Australia news live: Tony Abbott not ‘too excited’ by One Nation’s poll surge; Melbourne film festival hacked

Liberal party president says Coalition still the most credible' alternative government. Follow today's news live

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Tony Abbott, the new party president of the Liberals, said he wouldn't get too excited" by the poll showing One Nation's surging support. But he told RN this morning he believes the country is in trouble and the Liberal/National Coalition is best positioned to lead the nation.

Abbott spoke to RN Breakfast this morning, saying:

Our economy is stagnant, our society is fragmenting, our security is imperiled, and yes, we don't believe in ourselves nearly enough. I think the current government is making all of this worse. And it's really important that we get a better government as soon as possible. ...

Obviously, we are in a degree of competition with other parties and voices on the centre-right. But in the end, our opponent, our enemy, if you like, is a really bad Labor government, a really bad Green-left-Labor government. Which in its budget, [has led an] assault on aspiration and wealth creation.

The point I make is: if you normally vote Liberal, if you're interested in public life, if you think our country is in trouble, please don't complain on the sidelines. Join the party and make a difference.