On Thursday afternoon, Barnaby Joyce, one of the most colorful characters in Australian political life, declared he would depart from the National Party. His decision comes after a contentious few months marred by chaotic leadership and rankling hostility. His departure is indicative of larger trappings in the party, especially in a time of leadership and messaging amid significant criticism. Joyce, a long-time member for New England, has become one of the few unlikely cheerleaders for Sussan Ley. This paradox highlights the tensions in his new role as a party outsider.
Joyce’s departure in and of itself does not surprise those attuned to his obviously fractious recent history with party leadership. He lamented the lack of contact from both current leader David Littleproud and deputy Kevin Hogan since he announced he would not recontest his seat. Joyce’s historical connections run deep with the Nationals. He’s clearly irritated with where the party is headed and how it’s being led.
A Strained Relationship with the Nationals
Joyce’s relationship with the Nationals has often been said to be strained, with little love lost between him and the party brass. His attacks on fellow Republicans have gotten louder and louder, a sign of an ever-widening chasm even in the GOP’s own homey-family metaphor. The former deputy prime minister has been very vocal of his fears of where the party is headed today, and indeed the effectiveness of their leader.
Having previously served as Chief of Staff to Peter Costello, Joyce’s past is parallel to some of the titans of Australian political history. His comments about the Nationals reflect a deeper discontent with the party’s handling of key issues and its ability to connect with constituents.
Joyce’s sentiments have led to some interesting speculation about his future political ambitions. Yet he refused to defect to One Nation, surprising many with a more principled stand. When it came to dishing out criticism, he was unabashed, referring to the party as a “circus act.” His comments expose the strange duality of his relationship with both sides as he heads out the door with the Nationals.
Disappointment in Party Communication
Combined with little outreach or communication from the top brass in the Nationals, this has added to Joyce’s frustrations. In response, he noted that David Littleproud and Kevin Hogan never contacted him. Or, as in this case, perhaps not so quietly stepping down — after all, he got the much-maligned R. This lack of conversation indicates broader problems within the party regarding a lack of consideration to members and party morale.
Joyce’s position as a crossbench member only adds to these growing tensions. His resignation from the Nationals signals an important watershed for his political future. It serves to underscore the growing chasm separating him from the party’s consensus trajectory today. As he moves forward, questions remain regarding how this will impact both Joyce’s future and the Nationals’ stability.
“Nothing’s changed. It’s 10 years since I became prime minister, it’s … seven years since I stopped being prime minister, and there’s still you know reality denial, physics denial, is still all alive.” – Malcolm Turnbull
Future Political Landscape
Though Joyce’s departure from the Nationals raises questions about his next steps, it highlights potential shifts in Australia’s political landscape. His willingness to call out his own colleagues and leadership in the current system might attract support from constituents who share the same disenchantment. Whether he runs an independent campaign or joins up with another party, we’ll have to wait and see.
Joyce may be leaving his position in the Nationals behind, but perhaps the most mischievous legacy of Joyce’s impact on Australian politics is yet to come. His brash style and ready willingness to provoke the status quo could make him a favorite of different factions in the political battleground. Public sentiment will be extremely important in this new environment. Joyce’s next moves, especially the ones that could push back against political meddling, will be watched closely by supporters and detractors alike.
