Nationals Leader Matt Canavan Seeks Lower House Seat in Capricornia
National Party leader Matt Canavan aims to move from the Senate to the lower house, paving the way for a potential regional showdown.
At a glance
- Nationals leader Matt Canavan announced plans to seek preselection for the federal seat of Capricornia.
- The seat is being vacated by retiring LNP member Michelle Landry ahead of the next election.
- One Nation party director James Ashby is also considering a run for the central Queensland electorate.
Nationals leader Matt Canavan has announced his intention to seek preselection for the Central Queensland seat of Capricornia at the next federal election. The seat is being vacated by retiring LNP member Michelle Landry.
The move could set up a high-profile electoral contest against One Nation party director James Ashby, who is publicly considering a run for the same electorate.
Strategic move for the Nationals leader
Senator Canavan stated that he needed to step up during a volatile climate and desired a change of government. A successful transition from the Senate to the House of Representatives would fulfill the view within his party that the Nationals leader should sit in the lower house.
Senator Canavan noted he was seeking preselection through the local LNP branch rather than assuming candidacy. Nationals deputy Bridget McKenzie backed the move, noting that Senator Canavan has delivered for the community alongside Ms Landry.
Potential showdown with One Nation
One Nation party director James Ashby is considering putting his hat in the ring for the seat. Senator Canavan acknowledged that a real fight is ahead for the electorate.
Senator McKenzie responded to the prospect by arguing that One Nation should target Labor-held seats instead of competing against Coalition figures if the party genuinely wants a change of government.
What the transition means for politics
Shifting from the Senate to the lower house carries inherent electoral risks, as noted by party figures. However, securing a lower house seat would strengthen Senator Canavan's position as Nationals leader and align his role with other major party leaders. Observers will watch how local LNP members handle the preselection process and whether One Nation officially fields Mr Ashby against the Coalition.
What to watch: Watch for the LNP local branch preselection decision and whether James Ashby officially confirms his candidacy for Capricornia.
Reporting from: ABC News, The Guardian Australia. Spotted an error? Tell us.
- Matt Canavan
- James Ashby
- Michelle Landry
- Bridget McKenzie
- National Party
- Capricornia
- Australia
- Politics