Politics Now The Coalition is 'done'. Are Ley and Littleproud too?
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Jan 22, 2026 
Michelle Grattan, Chief Political Correspondent for The Conversation and a political analyst, delves into the shock collapse of the Coalition as the Nationals sever ties with the Liberals. She discusses the contentious timing of the split coinciding with a National Day of Mourning and speculates on the future of Sussan Ley’s leadership. Grattan also examines the implications for David Littleproud, the rise of One Nation’s influence, and how Prime Minister Albanese plans to capitalize on the chaos. Political futures are tangled, and the stakes have never been higher.
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Nationals Officially Break The Coalition
- The Nationals declared the coalition over, saying they cannot sit in a shadow ministry under Sussan Ley.
- Michelle Grattan argues the break likely ends the coalition for now and may topple Ley's leadership.
Dispute Over Decision-Making Sparks Rupture
- Nationals and Liberals dispute whether the decision on hate legislation was final, framing the split around cabinet solidarity.
- Sussan Ley insisted a position had been reached while David Littleproud said the process left the Nationals unable to comply.
Ley's Leadership Seen As Unsustainable
- Senior Liberals privately think Sussan Ley's leadership is untenable after the split, expecting a leadership contest.
- Michelle Grattan says the rupture may not guarantee reunited parties even with a new Liberal leader.