Former Queensland Premier Campbell Newman says Liberal Party politicians no longer represent the values of the party, those "so brilliantly outlined by Robert Menzies in the 1942 Forgotten People address".
"My involvement with the Liberal Party goes back to 1975 when Dad won the Bass by-election in a landslide marking the demise of the Whitlam government," Mr Newman told Sky News Australia.
"I have an enduring respect and deep regard for the Liberal Party members who are passionate about this country and volunteer their time for Australia.
"So with that in mind, and a deep sense of regret, why have I left?
"It's quite simple. The politicians don't represent the values of the party - those so brilliantly outlined by Robert Menzies in the 1942 Forgotten People address.
"I'm leaving to work with another party, and its members, to build a force to stand up for the forgotten people".
"I hope that many watching tonight will join me in joining the Liberal Democrats".
