Nationals Split from Liberals: 80-Year Coalition Ends

Australia's political landscape has shifted dramatically with the announcement that the Nationals have formally ended their 80-year coalition with the Liberal Party. Nationals leader David Littleproud stated, "Our party room has got to a position where we will not be re-entering a coalition agreement with the Liberal Party after this election." The decision stems from deep disagreements on key policy issues, notably nuclear energy, highlighting a growing divide within the Australian political establishment. This split leaves the Nationals to navigate the upcoming election as an independent force, potentially altering the balance of power in Parliament. The implications of this decision are far-reaching, likely to reshape the political discourse and strategies of all parties involved. The coming weeks will be crucial in observing how this development unfolds and influences the upcoming election.