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2026 National Party of Australia leadership election

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A leadership election was held on 11 March 2026 to elect the leader of the National Party of Australia. Senator Matt Canavan was elected, replacing David Littleproud. The election was held after the resignation of Littleproud from the leadership. A deputy leadership election was held concurrently, with Darren Chester being elected.

Background

On 10 March 2026, David Littleproud resigned from the leadership of the National Party, to the surprise of many. He stated his struggle with his leadership position since the 2025 federal election as "rough", describing himself as a punching bag. During Littleproud's tenure as leader, the Coalition was dissolved and re-united twice, deepening tensions between the Liberal and National parties.

Candidates

Party members who declared their intention to run for the leadership included Senator Matt Canavan, incumbent deputy leader Kevin Hogan, and Senate Leader Bridget McKenzie. It was previously speculated that former leader Michael McCormack would run for the leadership. In the party room, McCormack did not decide to run for the leadership.

Victorian MP Darren Chester was the only party member who declared himself a candidate for the deputy leadership as a result of Hogan running for the leadership; Chester was elected unanimously.

Results

Matt Canavan won the leadership election. Darren Chester was elected deputy leader to replace Kevin Hogan.

See also

References

Further reading