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Nationals Hold 'Good Faith' Talks with Libs to Reunite

Liberal and Nationals leaders continue negotiations after a split over shadow cabinet roles and solidarity following three Nationals senators' dissent on hate speech laws.

  • Opposition Leader Sussan Ley and Nationals leader David Littleproud met Monday evening to open formal reconciliation talks and agreed to continue discussions.
  • Two weeks ago, three Nationals frontbenchers crossed the floor, prompting Sussan Ley to accept their resignations over shadow cabinet solidarity, sparking disputes.
  • Littleproud survived a leadership challenge on Monday as backbenchers pushed for reunification, and former Nationals leader Michael McCormack urged coalition restoration within 48 hours.
  • The Nationals will meet again on Tuesday before parliament sits, while the Liberals planned to expand their shadow cabinet by February 9 if no agreement is reached.
  • Analysts warn the split weakens the opposition's scrutiny of the Albanese government, while Nationals powerbroker Matt Canavan insists on choosing their own frontbench and discussing `guardrails` and a dispute-resolution mechanism.
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  • 67% of the sources lean Left
67% Left

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SBS News broke the news in Sydney, Australia on Monday, February 2, 2026.
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