7am Is the Coalition back from the dead?
May 22, 2025
Karen Barlow, Chief Political Correspondent for The Saturday Paper, dives into the surprising revival of the Coalition. She discusses the crucial choices facing Sussan Ley and debates about trust between the Liberal and National parties. The conversation explores their negotiations around key issues like nuclear power and the implications of a potential breakup ahead of the 2028 elections. Barlow also highlights the struggle for party unity as the Liberals seek to modernize while balancing core values.
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Cabinet Solidarity Conflict
- The main conflict was over cabinet solidarity and the Nationals wanting a free vote on some issues while in coalition. - Susan Lee rejected breaking cabinet solidarity, which is a fundamental principle for the coalition's unity.
Key Nationals Demands
- David Littleproud insists on four key policy demands for Nationals to stay in coalition: nuclear power, regional fund, universal phone service, and supermarket divestiture powers. - Susan Lee agreed to take these issues to the Liberal party room for discussion.
Coalition Breakup Seen as Mutually Destructive
- Breaking the coalition would be mutually destructive for Liberals and Nationals, risking vote splitting and career damage. - Both parties recognize their interdependence to form government, despite tensions.