The Sydney Morning Herald logo

Kevin Hogan

Advertisement
New Nationals leader Matt Canavan.

Matt Canavan warns on Middle East wars, draws battle lines with One Nation

The outspoken right-winger was elected leader in a major pivot for the ailing regional party as it seeks to take on Barnaby Joyce and Pauline Hanson’s One Nation.

  • Paul Sakkal and Mike Foley

Latest

Nationals senator Matt Canavan arrives for the Nationals party room meeting at Parliament House in Canberra on Monday 2 February 2026

Canavan is a perfect pick for a fight with One Nation – but could hurt the Coalition

Matt Canavan is the high-risk, high-reward choice as the new Nationals leader. 

  • James Massola
All smiles … Nationals senators Ross Cadell, Matt Canavan, Bridget McKenzie and Susan McDonald voting against the hate speech bill on Tuesday night.

Inside the Coalition split: From attack to collapse in 48 hours

It was the end to the week that nobody saw coming. “Splitting the Coalition up wasn’t the plan,” says one Nationals MP. “Although I am not sure that was the case for everyone.”

  • Natassia Chrysanthos, Paul Sakkal and Mike Foley