Steven Coxhead, former Tamworth branch chairman of the National Party, has announced his resignation after a decade in the role, joining Pauline Hanson’s One Nation as the party continues its expansion into traditional Nationals territory. Coxhead said he could no longer support policies that, in his view, fail to represent the interests of regional and rural New South Wales voters.

He cited major policy concerns around native vegetation, energy, and net zero targets as key reasons for his departure. Coxhead said the Nationals have become unwilling or unable to move away from those policies, leaving many frustrated regional members searching for a stronger voice.

Following significant growth at the recent federal election, One Nation doubled its Senate representation and achieved its highest level of support since 2017. In the New England region, the party secured 10% of the vote in 2025, more than double the 4.7% recorded in 2022.

Next week, One Nation will officially launch its new branch in Tamworth, with Pauline Hanson expected to attend the event. Federal Member for New England and former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce said it is every citizen’s right to choose their political path but warned against the loss of political freedom in the future.

The defection of Steven Coxhead marks a symbolic moment in One Nation’s growing influence across rural New South Wales, as more voters seek alternatives to the major political parties.