Colin Boyce, the Nationals MP for Flynn, has announced he will challenge David Littleproud for the party leadership, accusing the current leadership of leading the party towards a 'political cliff' by ending the Coalition with the Liberals. Boyce stated he would move a spill motion at the party room meeting on Monday and stand as a contender.
Nationals MPs have dismissed Boyce's prospects, expressing confidence that Littleproud retains majority support despite internal unrest over his role in the Coalition's collapse. Senator Bridget McKenzie described the challenge as 'out of the blue', while former leader Michael McCormack noted Boyce's unhappiness but believed Littleproud's position was 'fairly safe'. Senator Matt Canavan, who ran against Littleproud last year, confirmed he would not stand this time.
Boyce argued the Nationals were committing 'political suicide' by going it alone, warning they would face a 'right-flank onslaught' from One Nation and struggle with resources. He denied he was defecting to One Nation, stating he remained a member of the Liberal National Party (LNP). Boyce, first elected in 2022, is a founding member of a climate science denial club and previously advocated a 'do nothing' strategy on blackouts to oppose net zero policies.
Littleproud released a statement defending his record and respecting the party room's decisions, including voicing different opinions. The decision to quit the Coalition was made at a Nationals party room meeting last Wednesday, which Boyce did not attend.
