Joyce to challenge McCormack leadership

BARNABY Joyce will challenge Nationals leader Michael McCormack for the party’s top job, saying there’s no point just wishing things were better.

Backbench MP Llew O’Brien will call for a leadership spill today.

Mr Joyce, the party’s former leader, said he had informed Mr McCormack he would have a tilt at the role.

“You can’t just sit back and say ‘I wish things were better’,” Mr Joyce told Sky News.

“I have respect for Mr McCormack, I think he does a good job.

“The National Party has to be on the balls of its toes as we face some of the most challenging times. We have to speak with our own voice.”

Mr Joyce has the support of Senator Matt Canavan, who has resigned from the ministry to back him.

This was despite earlier saying he was standing by Mr McCormack.

“We need a bulldog, we need a fighter,” Senator Canavan said.

The Queenslander wouldn’t say if he thought Mr Joyce had the numbers to win.

“I have not lobbied other members … I have no idea about the overall makeup of the result.

“I think Barnaby has proven himself as a stayer.”

Nationals MPs will also vote for a new deputy after Bridget McKenzie resigned over the sports rorts scandal.

Water, Drought and Emergency Management Minister David Littleproud is the frontrunner to replace her.

Mr McCormack had earlier dismissed speculation his job was at risk and was confident he would continue.

“There is no vacancy for the leadership, at the moment, of the National Party,” he said.

“I have delivered for rural and regional Australia.”

Senator McKenzie would not be drawn on what was likely to happen at the meeting, insisting only her old role was up for grabs.

“In true National Party fashion, I’m sure there will be a Melbourne Cup field of candidates,” she said.