Liberal senators push back on Nationals' claim of unified opposition to EU trade pact

National Party leader Matt Canavan claimed the Coalition is united in opposing the Australia-EU free-trade agreement, a view echoed by colleague Bridget McKenzie on one outlet Radio National. Liberal senators, however, disputed this, saying the deal has not been formally rejected and that it offers advantages over the status quo, especially amid global trade tensions. Senior Liberal figures emphasized that the agreement has not been examined by the shadow cabinet or party room and must await review by the joint standing committee on trade.

While Trade Minister Don Farrell maintains the deal is final and warns against renegotiation, some Liberals suggest limited changes could still be negotiated before ratification. European diplomats have warned that revisiting the pact would be damaging, and industry leaders stress the agreement’s importance for Australian exporters of beef, sheep meat, fruit, vegetables and seafood.