The Coalition risks political suicide if it does not reunite before the next election, according to a University of the Sunshine Coast expert in politics.
Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Relations, Dr Shannon Brincat
"It is highly likely - nearly certain - that the Liberal and National parties will come together before the next election or this split will be political suicide for both," says UniSC Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Relations Dr Shannon Brincat.
The federal Nationals have separated from the Liberals after a huge electoral defeat to the Australian Labor Party on 3 May.
Further comments from Dr Brincat:
- This separation is not unprecedented but it does show the level of polarisation and acrimony within the Coalition
- The tensions are not just between Liberals and Nationals but also within each party
- There are key difference between these parties at the state level - and Queensland is attempting to paper over the cracks
- The key debate is the direction each party will take, but they are caught ideologically between opposite platforms. For example, pro big business or break up the supermarkets?
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