Three Nationals senators have resigned from the shadow cabinet after defying the Coalition's official position on hate speech laws. Bridget McKenzie, Ross Cadell and Susan McDonald opposed the government's hate speech reforms in a late-night vote on Tuesday, breaching shadow cabinet solidarity.
Opposition Leader Sussan Ley accepted their resignations, stating that the Nationals had agreed to adhere to shadow cabinet decisions as a foundational principle of the Coalition. The split emerged after parliament was recalled early in response to the Bondi terror attack.
The Liberals sided with the government to pass laws enabling bans on extremist groups, stronger visa cancellation powers, and increased penalties for religious leaders promoting violence. However, the Nationals voted against the bill, citing concerns over freedom of speech.
Senator Cadell said he was prepared to face consequences for his actions, stating, 'Some things you have to stand up for.' Senator McKenzie acknowledged the decision could cost them their ministries, but said she would continue to act with integrity.
Nationals leader David Littleproud abstained from the vote in the House of Representatives, arguing that more time was needed to examine the bill. Some Liberal MPs questioned his future, while others noted the extraordinary circumstances of the hastily drafted reforms.
