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Kevin Hogan

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Liberal moderate James McGrath has secured the LNP’s top senate candidate endorsement for the next federal election.

Liberal takes top spot on Senate ticket over Nationals leader

Queensland senator James McGrath is the LNP’s No.1 candidate for the next federal election, ahead of Matt Canavan.

  • Courtney Kruk

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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
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