Nationals MPs are positioning themselves for a leadership contest after David Littleproud resigned as party leader, citing exhaustion. The right-wing senator Matt Canavan and deputy leader Kevin Hogan have declared their candidacies, with Senate leader Bridget McKenzie and former leader Michael McCormack also expected to nominate, creating a potential four-way contest.
Littleproud, who led the Nationals since May 2022, announced his resignation on Tuesday, saying he was “buggered” and lacked the energy to continue. His tenure was marked by internal divisions, including a split with the Liberals and the defection of former leader Barnaby Joyce to One Nation. The party has also seen declining support in rural areas, with One Nation gaining ground.
The leadership election is expected before the end of the week. Canavan stated he believes he has the best chance to deliver an “Australia first” plan, while Hogan confirmed he had been approached by colleagues to run. The party faces a critical test at the Farrer byelection on 9 May, where it risks finishing behind One Nation.
Littleproud will remain in parliament and plans to recontest his seat of Maranoa at the next election. He did not rule out serving in a shadow ministry under the new leader.
