Barnaby Joyce has lost his position as leader of the National Party following a post-election leadership vote. David Littleproud has now accepted the role, with Perin Davey serving as his deputy. Mr. Joyce's position came into in doubt following his suggestions that the party abandon support for the net zero emissions target.
Other coalition figures had made public their interest for the position including Bridget Archer and former National Party leader, Michael McCormack, who had not ruled out attempting to retake the position.
Water Scandal
As Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Joyce signed off on the federal government buying water from a Cayman Islands company created by his colleague, Energy Minister Angus Taylor. The government spent $80,000,000 on the water purchase which was evaluated to be only worth between $40,000,000 and holding no value at all.