October 1 - 31, 2026: Issue 659

 

Liberals Select Adelaide Cuneo as Candidate for Manly in 2027 Election + Shadow Cabinet: Update

On October 1 2026 the NSW Liberal Party announced their candidate for Manly is Adelaide Cuneo.

A lifelong local, Adelaide attended Stella Maris in Manly, learnt to surf at North Steyne beach, played netball at Curl Curl netball courts, and has recently purchased her first home in Freshwater.

Ms Cuneo is vice-president of the NSW Liberal Women's Council, and a former state and federal Coalition staffer. 

The Liberals stated:

‘After working in senior NSW Government roles, turning community priorities into actions, Adelaide has been working with an environment and energy not-for-profit on evidence-based policy and practical outcomes to drive more affordable energy.’

“Growing up and working in our local community has taught me how important it is to have a local Member who can deliver and fight for Manly, just as James has,” said Ms Cuneo. “Whether it’s backing local businesses or pushing for more funding for local roads, I look forward to the opportunity to represent my local community.” 

Raised in a small business family that operated their own business, Adelaide grew up understanding the hard work, long hours and sacrifice it takes to keep a small business running. Her own experience in hospitality, from working in local venues to training as a qualified chef, gave her first-hand understanding of the pressures facing small businesses and the people who rely on them. 

“Under this Labor Government, we’ve seen record numbers of small and family businesses close, losing countless local jobs. Our economy has gone from first to last under Labor, and household budgets are at breaking point,” said Ms Cuneo.

“Only the Liberals can put an end to Labor’s mismanagement. We have a plan to build a stronger NSW, where people can get ahead and stay ahead, businesses have the confidence to grow and create jobs, and our community can feel safe again."

‘As part of Kellie Sloane’s NSW Liberal team, Adelaide will build on James Griffin’s strong record of delivery for Manly, by backing local small businesses, improving roads and public transport, ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with development, and protecting the natural environment that makes our community such a special place to live.’ the NSW Liberals stated

Outgoing Member for Manly, James Griffin MP, who announced his retirement from serving as NSW MP for Manly in early September, said the community needs someone who has the experience and skills to continue the important work of delivering for Manly.

“The people of Manly deserve a representative who will deliver for them from day one - better transport, infrastructure and lower taxes,” Mr Griffin said.

“Adelaide Cuneo is the right person to deliver and fight for the residents of Manly.”

As part of Kellie Sloane's NSW Liberals team, Adelaide will ensure that Manly gets investment in the infrastructure, services and community amenities that it needs.

Shadow Cabinet: Update

On October 7 2026 Kellie Sloane, Leader of the Opposition, announced changes to the NSW Liberal Shadow Ministry ahead of the next election. Her statement reads:

‘’This is a team that combines experience with fresh perspectives, and is ready to take the fight to Labor, present a clear alternative and lead New South Wales.

Our focus is clear, building for the future, easing the cost of living, delivering more affordable housing, creating safer and stronger communities and backing small business.’’ a released statement says

‘’Susan Carter will join the Shadow Cabinet as Shadow Attorney General and Shadow Minister for Youth Justice, bringing her considerable legal experience to these important portfolios.

Damien Tudehope will become Shadow Minister for Energy and Climate Change, while Felicity Wilson will take on the Environment portfolio.

Tim James will take on the role of Special Minister of State.

Jacqui Munro will become Shadow Minister for Digital, Artificial Intelligence and Investment, as well as Shadow Minister for Customer Service.

Adam Crouch will return to the Shadow Cabinet as Shadow Minister for Local Government and Shadow Minister for the Central Coast.

I am also pleased to announce Stephanie Di Pasqua as Shadow Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Opposition.

Rachel Merton will become Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Police and Counter-terrorism, and Planning and Public Spaces, while Aileen MacDonald will become Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Charities and for the Arts.

NSW is a great state, but under Labor we are going backwards. Families are paying more, businesses are doing it tougher, our streets are less safe, and our state is not reaching its potential.

The next election will be a clear choice.

More of the same under a Labor Government with no vision, or a Liberal and Nationals Government with the experience, energy and ambition to get NSW back to number one.’’

The 2027 NSW State Election will be held March 27.