Mr Taylor backed former prime minister Tony Abbott’s comments at a Sydney forum on the weekend to give the rank and file a greater say in pre-selections, rather than factions.

The Hume MP was almost subjected to a factional pre-selection battle in Hume before the last election.

Addressing Saturday’s Democratic Reform Convention at Lilyfield, Mr Taylor described the change as necessary to respect and engage members and for the party’s long-term future.

“Most good, clear thinking people know the membership must have more say, and the rot must stop,” Mr Taylor said.

He believed this was critical given the recent election results. The Liberals had gained strong support in Sydney’s north and east but not in the outer regions and suburbs, “where elections were won and lost.”

”I see members and supporters in these areas whose patience is wearing thin and who will simply walk away,” Mr Taylor said. 

“The truth is, the organisation has no choice, and this is why we must act now.”  

At the party’s AGM in Sydney on Saturday the Warringah Federal Electoral Council will move a motion calling on State Council to resolve to amend the constitution, ensuring that each financial member be entitled to a vote. It is akin to a plebiscite.