The Nationals will no longer form a coalition with the Liberal party, marking the end of the formal partnership since the 1980s. According to the leader of the Nationals, David Littleproud, a decision was made by MPs not to enter into a new agreement with the Liberals after negotiations with Opposition Sussan Ley fell through.
Littleproud cited nuclear policy, a $20 billion regional Australia future fund, forced break-up powers in the supermarket sector, and essential services in rural areas as contentious issues that led to the breakup.
The split means that the parties will not join forces against Labor, which won a majority of seats in the May 3 election. The Nationals will not participate in the opposition frontbench and will independently create their own policies for the upcoming term.
Littleproud stated that the National party will operate based on principles, focusing on the future and maintaining the hard-fought successes of the past. More information will be provided soon.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/may/20/nationals-leaving-split-coalition-liberal-party-australian-election
