Nationals Senator Explains Party's Departure from Coalition Over Leadership Dispute
Hunter-based Nationals senator Ross Cadell has publicly detailed the reasons behind his party's recent split from the Liberal Party, stating there is no chance of a reunion under the current leadership. This marks the second time in less than a year that the Coalition has fractured, raising questions about its future stability.
Cabinet Solidarity Breach Triggers Mass Resignations
The immediate catalyst for the split was a breach of cabinet solidarity by Senator Cadell and two other Nationals senators, who resigned from their shadow portfolios on Wednesday. This principle requires all shadow ministers to vote uniformly, and their departure was quickly followed by the resignation of the ten other National frontbenchers. Party leader David Littleproud declared that the Nationals cannot be part of a shadow ministry under Sussan Ley, citing her alleged mismanagement of a dispute over proposed hate speech laws.
Senator Cadell echoed this sentiment, emphasising that the divide is rooted in leadership issues. "It's clear that under the current leadership of both parties, there will be no getting back together quickly," he stated, underscoring the deep-seated disagreements that have surfaced.
Political Motivations and Timing Criticisms
Political analysts have speculated that the Nationals' move may be strategically motivated to counter the rising popularity of One Nation, which recently surpassed the Coalition as the country's second-most popular party. Historical parallels exist, such as when gun restrictions in 1996 led to a surge in One Nation's vote in Queensland. One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has announced plans to target National-held seats, bolstered by the defection of former deputy prime minister Barnaby Joyce.
However, Senator Cadell firmly rejected this theory, attributing the split solely to the hate speech law controversy. "We're very comfortable with how our vote is holding up against One Nation in our seats," he asserted, suggesting that One Nation's gains are primarily from Labor and declining Liberal support in peri-urban areas.
The timing of the announcement has drawn criticism, as it coincided with the national day of mourning for victims of the Bondi shooting. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley reportedly urged a 24-hour pause out of respect, but the Nationals proceeded. In a statement, Ms Ley emphasised that the focus should remain on Jewish Australians and those in mourning, highlighting the sensitivity of the situation.
Historical Context and Future Implications
This split is the second since the 2025 federal election, following a brief separation in May 2025 over issues like nuclear power and supermarket divestiture powers. While that rift lasted only a week, insiders believe the current division could be more prolonged, given the entrenched positions on hate speech laws and leadership dynamics.
The ongoing turmoil within the Coalition raises significant questions about its ability to present a united front in future elections, potentially reshaping Australia's political landscape as parties navigate internal conflicts and external pressures from rivals like One Nation.
