The recent appointment of Sussan Ley to lead the Liberal Party is a significant moment in history as the first female leader of the party in its 80 year history. But Conflict Specialist and Mediator, Sarah Blake, says Ms Ley’s appointment is a tough job at a tough time, and she isn’t the first woman to be thrown into a leadership situation during a time of crisis.

When women finally step into leadership, they often face a tough reality: the glass cliff. This term describes a troubling pattern. Women are often promoted to leadership roles during times of crisis. If things don’t go well, they’re quickly blamed.

“The glass cliff is where women are appointed in precarious leadership positions,” explains Sarah. “It often happens when the risk of failure is high.”

The Set-Up to Fail

Sarah says many women are set up to fail from the start. They’re brought in to fix problems but given little support. “There’s a lot of pressure,” she says. “They’re expected to clean things up quickly, without the right resources.”

This pressure isn’t just about work performance. It can take a personal toll. “Some women leave thinking, ‘I’ve failed,’ But actually the situation was already broken.”

Why It Happens

So why does the glass cliff exist? “Part of it is subconscious bias,” says Sarah. “There’s this idea that women are better at fixing messes. Or that they’re more expendable.”

Another reason? “Sometimes organisations want to look like they’re progressive,” she adds. “Appointing a woman leader ticks a box.”

Real Impact on Women

The emotional and professional cost is high. Sarah recalls working with many women in this situation. “One had taken a CEO role and lasted six months. She left feeling shattered,” she says.

But Sarah is quick to point out it’s not the woman’s fault. “Often, these women are incredibly capable,” she says. “They just walked into a storm.”

How to Push Back

Sarah encourages women to ask more questions before taking a new role. “Ask why the role is vacant,” she advises. “Ask what support is available. Get clear on the expectations.”

And if the answers don’t feel right? “It’s okay to say no,” she says. “You don’t have to rescue a sinking ship.”

A Call to Change the System

Fixing the glass cliff isn’t just about helping women survive tough roles. It’s about changing how organisations work.

“Leadership shouldn’t be about throwing people into fire,” Sarah says. “We need better systems, better support, and real accountability.”

Until that happens, Sarah says awareness is key. “If women understand the glass cliff, they can see it coming,” she says. “And they can choose not to step off it.”