The political landscape in Australia has been rocked by the dramatic resignation of veteran politician Barnaby Joyce from the National Party. This move, which ends a three-decade association, has sparked intense speculation about his future and sent shockwaves through his former political home.
A Tumultuous Departure and its Immediate Aftermath
The resignation, announced just before question time on November 29, 2025, was far from a quiet farewell. Instead of polite regret, it prompted a curious blend of fury and relief among his former colleagues. Mr Joyce made it clear that his resentment stemmed from being relegated to the backbench by the current leadership, led by David Littleproud. He felt that the party's talk of 'generational change' was merely code for pushing him out.
His statement revealed a complete breakdown in communication, noting he had no substantial contact with the party leader or deputy leader beyond a few short phone calls. Having been elected party leader twice, this veteran of many political crises now finds himself on the crossbench, a significant demotion for a man accustomed to the front row.
Weighing an Uncertain Political Future
What comes next for Barnaby Joyce is the subject of intense speculation. The future is a chaotic sketch, with several paths possible. One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has already made a direct approach, trying to convince him over a steak dinner earlier in the week.
While Mr Joyce confirmed he is 'strongly considering' running for the Senate under the One Nation banner, he has not yet made a final decision. He is weighing all opportunities, openly acknowledging that his future 'might be in business. It might be out.' This indecision adds to the unpredictability that has long defined his career.
Consequences and Reactions from Former Allies
The practical challenges of his new solo act are immense. After decades with the resources of a major party at his disposal, he loses access to the National Party's machinery for policy development and strategic counsel. While his core electorate staff remains, the substantial research and administrative support is gone.
His departure has also cleaved personal relationships within the party. Former friend of twenty years, John Williams, declared their friendship over, labelling the move incredibly disappointing. Nationals Senate leader Bridget McKenzie issued a warning, urging him not to 'trash' his legacy by joining what she called a 'protest party' like One Nation.
Yet, other reactions were more nuanced. Nationals MP Michael McCormack expressed concern that the resignation 'cannot end well for Barnaby, nor for the Nationals.' Meanwhile, David Littleproud, who was responsible for moving Mr Joyce to the backbench, is almost certainly relieved that a perennial thorn has been removed.
Given his history of bouncing back from crises, few are ruling out a potential reversal. As Opposition Leader Peter Dutton noted, expressing concern for Mr Joyce's 'welfare' after a recent incident, the Australian public has likely not seen the last of this political warhorse. As Mr Joyce himself admitted, walking away from party membership is 'very, very, very hard.'
