National deputy Darren Chester warns of One Nation threat and shifts on climate policy

In an interview with Annabel Crabb, National Party deputy leader Darren Chester downplayed the impact of One Nation’s rise in his Gippsland seat, saying he does not worry about the party’s actions there. He condemned former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce’s decision to join One Nation, labeling it self-indulgent and lamenting its effect on his legacy. Chester described the Nationals as a loosely-aligned group of independents who prioritize rural and regional concerns, noting a growing disconnect between metropolitan voters and regional communities.

He admitted his stance on climate policy has changed, moving from earlier support for the Net Zero target to backing nuclear energy, especially a proposed plant in the Latrobe Valley, while still supporting renewables. The conversation also referenced his experience during the Black Summer bushfires and internal party tensions at that time.