Liberal Senator Jonno Duniam to Quit Politics in Blow to Coalition
Shadow home affairs minister Jonno Duniam will quit politics before the end of the year to prioritize his family. The Tasmanian senator’s departure comes as the Coalition faces its lowest popularity in decades and a primary vote surge from One Nation, according to recent polling data.
Why is Jonno Duniam retiring from politics?
Duniam stated the decision to leave was “extremely difficult” but one he’d considered for “quite some time” to spend more time with his three boys. He told reporters on Sunday that his personal energy levels were the primary driver.
The 43-year-old senator identified the party’s leadership change earlier this year as a catalyst. He described the process as “exhausting” and “difficult,” noting that it started to wear on him regardless of the party’s polling position.
What is the impact on the Coalition’s leadership?
Opposition leader Angus Taylor has asked Duniam to finish the Coalition’s immigration policy work before he officially departs. Liberal president Tony Abbott expressed disappointment, stating the opposition now needs “every hand on deck” to oppose the current government.
Home affairs minister Tony Burke told Sky News on Sunday that Duniam was among the opposition’s “best and brightest.” Abbott added that he hopes the replacement is drawn from a field of “proven achievers.”
How does this fit into the Coalition’s electoral struggle?
The announcement follows a May Redbridge Group/Accent Research poll, published in the Australian Financial Review, which showed One Nation’s primary vote surpassed both Labor and the Coalition for the first time. Duniam acknowledged his exit comes at a difficult time, as current data suggests the Coalition could be wiped out as the opposition if One Nation’s popularity continues.
Internal disagreements over strategy have also emerged. Shadow minister Tony Pasin recently suggested the party and One Nation “work hand-in-glove” by not running in the same seats, though Angus Taylor rejected this and senator James Paterson called the idea “premature.”
Duniam dismissed the idea of deals with One Nation two years before a federal election as “not relevant.” He argued that “waving the white flag” to get across the line would mean the party is not doing its job properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Jonno Duniam officially leave politics?
He will quit before the end of the current year.
What policy work is Duniam expected to complete before leaving?
Opposition leader Angus Taylor asked him to finish the Coalition’s immigration policy work.
What did recent polling show regarding One Nation?
A May poll by Redbridge Group/Accent Research showed One Nation’s primary vote surpassed both the Coalition and Labor for the first time.
Do you think the Coalition should consider strategic deals with other parties to maintain its position as the official opposition?