The Briefing The new face of the Nats + Australia closes major international embassy
Mar 11, 2026
Katina Curtis, Canberra bureau chief of The West Australian and federal politics analyst. She explains the sudden Nationals leadership change and why One Nation’s surge is reshaping rural seats. Discussion covers Matt Canavan’s challenge to revive the party, his style and messaging, and the risks of defections and declining support in key electorates.
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Resignation Reveals Nationals Partyroom Fragility
- David Littleproud's sudden resignation reflected deep instability in the Nationals after recent leadership tensions and defections.
- The party room had been shrinking and morale was fragile, with multiple MPs leaving and a failed Senate result under Littleproud's leadership.
One Nation Targets Nationals Heartland
- The rapid rise of Pauline Hanson's One Nation is a bigger threat to the Nationals than to the Liberals because it targets rural and regional electorates.
- Polling and betting markets suggest Nationals are unlikely to be competitive in upcoming FARA-like by-elections, where One Nation could overtake them.
Walking From The Coalition Increased Internal Strain
- Littleproud's leadership saw the Nationals walk away from the Coalition twice, contributing to internal unrest and shrinking numbers.
- Those moves, plus defections to crossbenchers and One Nation, left the party room spooked and open to change.