David Littleproud is the new leader of the federal Nationals.
Photo by
james bennett
David Littleproud has been chosen as the next leader of the federal Nationals.
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The Queensland MP had been deputy to Barnaby Joyce, who he ousted from the top job following a post-election leadership spill in Canberra on Monday morning.
NSW Senator Perin Davey was elected deputy.
Three people had nominated for leader — Mr Littleproud, Mr Joyce and Victorian Gippsland MP Darren Chester. Victorian Mallee MP Anne Webster had put her hand up for the deputy role.
NSW Senator Perin Davey is the new deputy leader of the Nationals.
Photo by
Olivia Duffey
Addressing the media post-spill on May 30, Mr Littleproud described his win as "the proudest day of my professional life".
"I believe passionately in the National Party because we are all there is about regional and rural Australia. We are the conscience of rural and regional Australia right here in this parliament," he said.
"The National Party today starts its journey towards 2025, with a vibrant team, ready to articulate the policies that are important to regional and rural Australia.
"But also to draw on the experience of two former deputy prime ministers in Barnaby Joyce and Michael McCormack. To build that bridge of unity and purpose, to make sure that regional and rural Australia isn't forgotten here."
Mr Littleproud said the Nationals would draw upon the "strength" of Senator Davey and Senate leader Bridget McKenzie in his leadership team.
"This is about us as a party moving forward, not lurching to the left not lurching to the right but bringing this thing called common sense to Canberra," he said.
"And I'm proud to say that part of my leadership is two bright, articulate, powerful women. That's the National Party way."
Meanwhile, Federal Member for Farrer Sussan Ley has been elected deputy leader of the Liberal Party, and Peter Dutton is the new party leader.