David Littleproud Resigns as Australian National Party Leader

2026-03-10 - 06:45

Federal Member of Parliament David Littleproud resigned as leader of Australia’s National Party on Tuesday in Canberra, citing physical exhaustion and a lack of energy to continue in the role ahead of the next election. The resignation triggers an immediate leadership vacancy within the political organization. A party room meeting is scheduled later this week to elect a successor. Littleproud confirmed he will retain his parliamentary seat representing the Queensland electorate of Maranoa. Prospective candidates for the leadership position include Senator Matt Canavan, former leader Michael McCormack, Deputy Leader Kevin Hogan, and Senator Bridget McKenzie. Littleproud announced his decision during a press conference following parliamentary question time, appearing alongside his wife, Amelia. He stated that he formally notified the National Party Chief Whip, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and Liberal Party leader Angus Taylor prior to the public address. “I’m buggered, and I’ve had enough,” Littleproud told reporters. “The leader must be able to give everything they have, but after the last few months, I have come to realise that I no longer have the energy required to do this job to the best of my ability.” The leadership transition follows a volatile operational period for the federal coalition. Under Littleproud’s tenure, the National Party and the Liberal Party experienced two temporary administrative splits, most recently in January 2026 over disputes regarding hate speech legislation. Littleproud has maintained the leadership position since May 2022.