Barnaby Joyce Defects to One Nation for NSW Senate Bid

Former Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce announced on Monday that he has defected to Pauline Hanson's One Nation party and will seek election as a senator for New South Wales at the next federal poll. The move, which Joyce described as the result of long consideration, positions him to lead One Nation's Senate ticket in the state while continuing to represent the electorate of New England in parliament until the election.

In a statement released that morning, Joyce outlined his motivations, emphasizing policies that prioritize national interests over sectional ones and a deteriorating relationship with the Nationals, where he once served as leader twice. He highlighted immigration and energy as key concerns. On energy, Joyce criticized what he called an "eviscerated" platform driven by efforts to address climate change, arguing that such policies undermine living standards, economic strength and defense resilience. He also faulted excessive regulations for eroding rights rather than enhancing safety. Regarding immigration, Joyce accused the Labor government of boosting population levels in ways that hinder Australians' ability to afford homes, start families and grow the nation's...