In a sudden political development, Dugald Saunders has resigned as leader of the NSW Nationals, just one day after his daughter appeared in a reality television series focusing on OnlyFans influencers.
The member for Dubbo announced his decision to fellow MPs on Monday before informing the media, describing it as a 'difficult decision but the right time' to step back from leadership responsibilities.
Family Focus Behind Resignation
Mr Saunders, aged 52, stated in a media release that his resignation would allow him to focus more on his family and himself. The announcement comes amid revelations that several family members are battling illnesses, though a spokesperson for the politician insisted the timing was coincidental and unrelated to his daughter's television appearance.
The former leader emphasised that his departure would allow a new leader to prepare for the next election cycle while he concentrates on personal matters. He will, however, remain as the member for Dubbo in central west New South Wales.
Daughter's Documentary Appearance
Mr Saunders' daughter, 19-year-old Charlie Saunders who uses the online name Willow Rae, featured prominently in the six-part reality series Spicy Summer, which premiered on Sunday. The documentary explores the world of subscription-based platform OnlyFans, known for hosting adult content creators.
In her appearance, the teenager explained she turned to the adult industry after experiencing significant bullying during her high school years in regional NSW. 'I was bullied a lot in school about my appearance,' she revealed in the documentary, describing how the experience led to depression and feelings of unworthiness.
Ms Saunders defended her career choice, stating: 'I can do what I want, and I'm a legal consenting adult.' Her OnlyFans profile, since deleted according to Daily Mail sources, described her as 'the girl next door if next door's a farm'.
Political Fallout and Succession
The resignation has triggered a leadership contest within the NSW Nationals, with MPs scheduled to vote on a new leader at 8:30am Tuesday. Deputy leader Gurmesh Singh and former leader Paul Toole, who lost the position in 2023, are expected to be the main contenders for the role.
Frontbench MPs Steph Cooke and Kevin Anderson have also been mentioned as potential candidates for the leadership position.
Opposition leader Mark Speakman praised Mr Saunders' contribution, saying he 'valued very much' his 'steady, collegiate and constructive counsel' and describing him as a tireless advocate for regional NSW.
According to The Australian, there were no plans to challenge Mr Saunders' leadership in the upcoming sitting week of parliament, which could be the final session for the year.
