Canberra, May 22, 2025 — Nationals leader David Littleproud has confirmed that the Nationals will not be entering into a formal Coalition agreement with the Liberal Party, putting a pause on any official partnership between the two traditional allies.
In a surprising and emotional moment in Parliament, Littleproud revealed he had hugged Liberal leader Sussan Ley after informing her of the Nationals’ decision. Despite the lack of a formal Coalition deal, Littleproud emphasized that the Nationals still want a partnership.
“We want a coalition. We want to work together. But we’re also here to stand on our own two feet and advocate strongly for regional Australia,” Littleproud said during a press conference.
The move reflects growing tensions and strategic recalibrations within the conservative bloc, as both parties position themselves ahead of the next federal election.
Meanwhile, the final sitting day of Parliament before the winter break saw lighter moments as MPs bid farewell to outgoing colleagues. One member marked the occasion by performing a shoey—a popular Australian tradition involving drinking from a shoe—on the floor of Parliament, drawing cheers and laughter from those in attendance.
