UPDATE: In a shocking turn of events, former Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce has announced he will not recontest his New England seat in the upcoming 2028 election. Joyce’s decision, stemming from deteriorating relationships within the Nationals party, raises significant questions about his political future, including speculation of a potential run with the conservative minor party One Nation.
Joyce revealed that internal conflicts, notably over climate policies, have made his position within the party untenable. In a candid letter to branch members, he stated, “My relationship with the leadership of the Nationals in Canberra has unfortunately, like a sadness in some marriages, irreparably broken down.” This development comes after Joyce was demoted from the party’s frontbench by current leader David Littleproud earlier this year.
The 2023 federal election marked a historic low for the coalition, prompting internal strife among its members. Joyce’s exit is part of a broader trend of discontent, highlighted by the recent dismissal of Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price from the front bench and Andrew Hastie‘s resignation from the shadow ministry over similar policy disagreements.
Joyce has been a vocal critic of the Nationals’ commitment to net-zero emissions, describing the policy as a source of division within his constituency. “Our position in continuing to support net zero… makes continuing in the Nationals’ party room in Canberra under this policy untenable,” he emphasized.
The Nationals and Liberals have launched reviews of their climate policies as tensions rise within the party. Joyce’s criticism also extended to restrictions placed on his campaigning efforts during the last federal election, further illustrating the fractures within the party.
In response to Joyce’s departure, Treasurer Jim Chalmers remarked, “You know the coalition is bad if not even Barnaby Joyce wants to be part of it.” This statement underscores the growing perception of disunity and discord in the coalition as it grapples with its identity and policies.
As Joyce prepares to conclude his parliamentary term, he has opened the door to future opportunities, stating, “I am free to now consider all options as to what I do next.” This leaves the door wide open for speculation about his potential alignment with One Nation, led by Pauline Hanson, as he navigates the next chapter of his political career.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops and impacts the political landscape in Australia.
