In a significant political development that has sent shockwaves through New South Wales politics, Dugald Saunders has announced his resignation as leader of the state's National Party. The surprise move comes amid growing turmoil within the Coalition opposition over climate policy and other key issues.
Leadership Resignation and Family Reasons
Dugald Saunders confirmed his departure from the leadership role on Monday, just ahead of a scheduled party room meeting. The MP for Dubbo cited personal and family considerations as the primary motivation behind his decision to step down after two-and-a-half years at the helm of the parliamentary Nationals.
In an official statement, Saunders expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the party while acknowledging the challenges faced during his tenure. "For the past two-and-a-half years I have had the privilege of leading the NSW Nationals – today I am stepping down from that position," he stated.
Saunders emphasised that his decision, while difficult, represented the right moment to prioritise personal matters. "It's a difficult decision, but it is the right time for me to take a step back and focus more on my family and myself," he explained, adding that the timing would also allow a new leader to establish themselves before the next state election.
Climate Policy Tensions Rock Coalition
The leadership change occurs against a backdrop of significant internal conflict within the NSW Coalition over environmental policy. Last week saw state Nationals members vote to abandon their commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050, creating substantial friction with their Liberal counterparts.
This policy reversal mirrors similar tensions affecting the federal Coalition and highlights the deepening divisions over climate strategy within conservative politics. The NSW Liberals are expected to address their position on net zero during discussions scheduled for Tuesday, setting the stage for potential further confrontation between the coalition partners.
Beyond climate policy, the Coalition has faced internal disagreements on several other fronts, including:
- Management of wild horse populations in national parks
- Establishment of the proposed Great Koala National Park
- Overall direction and strategy for the opposition
Leadership Speculation and Political Fallout
Attention now turns to the succession battle within both coalition parties. Former leader Paul Toole, the Bathurst MP, is widely expected to contest the Nationals leadership position he previously held, though other potential candidates may yet emerge.
Meanwhile, the Liberal leadership faces its own uncertainties. Current opposition leader Mark Speakman was anticipated to make a statement regarding his position later on Monday, amid growing speculation that he could be replaced as soon as this week. The Coalition's consistently poor performance in opinion polls has increased pressure for leadership changes across both parties.
Kellie Sloane has been identified as the frontrunner to potentially replace Speakman should a Liberal leadership contest occur. Such changes would significantly alter the dynamics facing Premier Chris Minns and his Labor government, potentially creating a more formidable opposition ahead of the next election.
Despite stepping down from the leadership, Saunders confirmed he will continue to represent his Dubbo electorate as their local member, maintaining his presence in state politics while focusing on constituency work.
The dual leadership crises within the NSW Coalition underscore the broader challenges facing conservative parties in Australia as they grapple with policy direction, internal unity, and electoral appeal in a rapidly changing political landscape.
