Matt Canavan Secures Nationals Leadership After Littleproud’s Exit

Gippsland MP Darren Chester has been appointed deputy leader, while Senator Bridget McKenzie remains the Nationals’ leader in the Senate.

National Party Senators Bridget McKenzie (L) and Matt Canavan speak to the media at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on Feb. 4, 2026. Hilary Wardhaugh/Getty Images

Senator Matt Canavan has been elected leader of the National Party, replacing David Littleproud, who stepped down unexpectedly a day earlier.

Nationals MP for Gippsland, Darren Chester, was chosen as deputy leader following a party room vote on March 11.