In a bombshell move that has sent shockwaves through Australian politics, former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce has quit the party to join Pauline Hanson's One Nation.
A Political Earthquake in Tamworth
Standing alongside Senator Hanson in Tamworth on Monday, the veteran MP for New England confirmed his sensational defection. Mr Joyce announced he would stand for One Nation as a Senator for New South Wales at the next election.
"I am firmly of the view which I have considered over a long period of time that the best choice before me is to stand for One Nation as a Senator for NSW," Mr Joyce said in a social media statement. He added that he would let the voters be the ultimate judge of his decision.
Mr Joyce, who has represented the New England electorate since 2004, will remain its local MP under the One Nation banner until the next federal poll. He is then slated to lead the party's NSW Senate ticket.
Hanson Welcomes a 'Determined' Fighter
Senator Pauline Hanson warmly welcomed Mr Joyce to her party's ranks. She stated the decision was entirely his and expressed pleasure that he had chosen One Nation.
"His experience and determination to fight for farmers and regional Australia will strengthen our position in Parliament," Senator Hanson said.
The announcement coincides with One Nation intensifying its campaign against the Albanese government's net zero emissions targets and current immigration levels. Senator Hanson revealed that One Nation's new energy policy, which pledges to dismantle net zero, withdraw from the Paris Agreement, and reduce power bills, influenced Mr Joyce's move.
"One Nation’s support is growing across the country," Senator Hanson claimed. "Voters know exactly where I stand — and now Barnaby has made it clear where he stands too."
Coalition Support Plummets as One Nation Surges
This political earthquake comes as the latest Resolve Political Monitor reveals the Coalition's support has crashed to a record low. The poll shows Labor maintaining a commanding 55 per cent to 45 per cent lead on a two-party preferred basis.
Housing affordability and intense cost-of-living pressures are fuelling widespread voter dissatisfaction. These concerns are inflaming debates over migration, with the poll indicating two-thirds of Australians now want immigration paused entirely.
The polling data suggests a particularly troubling trend for the Coalition: One Nation's support would expand significantly if the party were led by Mr Joyce. This highlights the minor party's potential to capitalise on growing frustration with mainstream politics, while the Coalition struggles to connect on key economic issues.
Mr Joyce's defection marks a major realignment in conservative politics. Senator Hanson has vowed that the pair will work together to "expose and oppose" the agenda of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's government, setting the stage for a fierce political battle ahead of the next election.
