7am The man behind the Nationals’ leadership spill
Jan 29, 2026
Colin Boyce, Nationals MP for Central Queensland who represents a vast rural electorate, explains why he is challenging his party leadership. He discusses the Coalition split, the timing of a controversial announcement, the symbolic intent of his challenge, and the political threat posed by One Nation. Short, direct, and focused on party survival and unity.
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Running Alone Risks Party Survival
- Colin Boyce warns a standalone Nationals risks political oblivion and losing senators in key states.
- He argues splitting the Coalition will trigger three-cornered contests and shrink funding and staff capacity for campaigns.
Split Announced During National Mourning
- Colin Boyce says he had no idea David Littleproud would announce the split on the Bondi massacre mourning day.
- He recounts giving a Radio National interview where he refused to politicise the national day of mourning.
Force A Reassessment Through A Spill
- Do pressure colleagues to reassess running alone by making the membership aware of electoral risks.
- Colin Boyce says his spill challenge aims to force a rethink and preserve the party's future.