The former leader of the Nationals, who represented New England and led the party during two Coalition government terms, announced his departure from the party in a brief speech to parliament this afternoon.

“After three decades with the National Party, I am resigning,” Barnaby Joyce declared.

Although Joyce stated today that he has yet to decide on his future plans beyond completing his current term, he acknowledged that he is seriously contemplating running for a Senate seat with a minor party in the upcoming 2028 election.

“The Senate has its appeal, particularly in reviewing and amending legislation… I’ve served in the Senate before,” he noted.

However, Bridget McKenzie, a senior Nationals senator, cautioned Joyce against joining a minor party.

“He’s accomplished significant things, and his legacy is considerable, but that could be undermined if he joins One Nation. That’s the critical question he needs to consider,” she warned.

“Does he want to be part of a party of government to get things done… or join a protest party where you won’t be able to do that.”