7am Breakup to Makeup: Can the Coalition last?
Feb 8, 2026
Karen Middleton, press gallery journalist and political commentator, breaks down the Nationals-Liberals collapse and rapid reunion. She outlines the reconciliation terms and who gained from the deal. She probes whether promises of lasting unity are believable and the consequences for Sussan Ley’s leadership and party credibility.
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Breakup Triggered By Floor Crossings
- The Nationals walked out after three senators crossed the floor over hate speech laws, forcing their resignations and collapsing the Coalition.
- Karen Middleton says this was the trigger for the second breakup in nine months and exposed deep distrust between parties.
Process Changes To Prevent Future Falls
- The deal shortens suspensions to six weeks and requires shadow ministers to sign a solidarity agreement.
- Karen says they also introduced formal minute-taking to prevent later disputes about decisions.
Questionable Gains For Both Sides
- Middleton questions what the Nationals actually gained: suspended ministers return but with tighter rules and shorter suspensions.
- She suggests Liberals regained unity benefits, while Nationals won limited concessions.