David Littleproud’s response to potential Nationals leadership loss over brief Coalition division: ‘No concern of mine’ | National party news

David Littleproud has stated that he does not care about losing the leadership of the Nationals over the party’s split with the Liberals. He insisted that the majority of his MPs supported the decision to separate from the Coalition, which was later reversed. Liberal MPs have argued that Littleproud’s authority has been weakened due to the ongoing split. Former Nationals leaders Barnaby Joyce and Michael McCormack have been vying for control within the party. Littleproud expects a new Coalition agreement to be signed in the coming days and defended his demands to the opposition leader, Sussan Ley. He emphasized that the decision was made on principle and he is proud of the outcome. The Coalition suffered a defeat in the recent election, and the Nationals had previously stated their intention to break up the Coalition. However, they backtracked after Ley sought reconciliation. The Liberals have agreed in principle to the Nationals’ demands on nuclear power, regional development funds, telecommunications guarantees, and breaking up big retailers. Littleproud anticipates an agreement with Ley in the coming days. Michael McCormack, a former Nationals leader, questioned Littleproud’s leadership, drawing parallels with previous Liberal leadership dramas. He stated that he is not planning to challenge Littleproud’s leadership anytime soon. The deputy Nationals leader, Kevin Hogan, stated that Littleproud’s leadership is secure and that the party’s position on net-zero climate policies is settled. A Liberal frontbencher, Andrew Bragg, dismissed suggestions that some in his party want Littleproud rolled, emphasizing the importance of maintaining an effective opposition. Both Littleproud and Ley are in ongoing dialogue to reorganize the Coalition for the next parliament.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/may/25/david-littleproud-says-if-he-loses-nationals-leadership-over-short-lived-coalition-split-i-dont-care