Barnaby Joyce, a prominent figure within Australia’s political landscape, is reportedly contemplating a significant shift in his career. There is speculation that Joyce might leave the Nationals to join Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party.

His political journey began in 2004 when he secured a seat in the Senate. Nearly a decade later, in 2013, he transitioned to the House of Representatives. Joyce’s tenure as the leader of the Nationals and his role as deputy prime minister were marked by influence in conservative governments until 2018. That year, he resigned from these positions amid controversy surrounding his relationship with former staffer Vikki Campion.

Pauline Hanson, the leader of One Nation, seems open to the idea of Joyce joining her party. “If Barnaby wants to come to One Nation, I’d be happy to have him,” she expressed to the media.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Joyce is currently engaged in “advanced talks” regarding this potential political move. Such a defection would represent a significant setback for the Nationals and might inspire others to consider aligning themselves with the more right-wing One Nation party.

Meanwhile, the Coalition has been experiencing its own challenges under the new leadership of Sussan Ley. She assumed the role in May, succeeding Peter Dutton after Labor’s decisive electoral victory. These internal tensions could further complicate the party’s response to Joyce’s potential departure.

The Coalition has struggled with some internal frustrations under the leadership of Sussan Ley, who was elected in May to replace Peter Dutton following Labor’s landslide victory at the polls.