Shadow Home Affairs Minister Jonno Duniam, one of the Liberals' strongest performers, has announced he will quit politics by the end of 2026, leaving with a mix of guilt and relief. The 43-year-old Tasmanian senator, who serves as Angus Taylor's home affairs spokesman, has been in the Senate for nearly a decade and played a key role in crafting the opposition's immigration policy.
Family first: The reason behind his departure
Duniam cited the toll of being away from home for 20 to 25 weeks a year as a primary reason for his decision. He recounted breaking the news to his three sons, aged 11 to 17, by leaving copies of the local newspaper for them. His youngest son, Spencer, exclaimed, 'I never thought this day would come,' while his eldest, nearing 18, and his 15-year-old were also supportive. 'I know very much that I've made the right call,' Duniam said, acknowledging that his boys will benefit from his increased presence.
Guilt and regret about leaving colleagues
Duniam admitted feeling guilty about leaving friends and colleagues 'on the field of battle' as the Coalition struggles in the polls, trailing behind One Nation and Labor. However, he emphasised that his decision was not related to the party's performance but to his personal life. 'I can't do my job justice and be a father to my boys properly. Something was going to have to give,' he explained.
Liberals' struggles and 'signs of life'
Reflecting on the Liberals' poor state, Duniam criticised the party for doing 'nothing' in the nine months after the 2025 election, which led to voters shifting to One Nation. He praised new leader Angus Taylor for providing 'signs of life' but stressed that 'it's far from job done.'
No talks of One Nation deals
Duniam dismissed suggestions of preference deals with One Nation as 'mad,' arguing that the party should focus on its own policies rather than coalition talks.
Immigration policy challenges
Before leaving, Duniam aims to finalise the Coalition's immigration policy. He acknowledged the difficulty of presenting the policy without it being perceived as divisive, but insisted it will address concerns of all Australians.
Attracting young talent
Despite the negative public perception of politicians as 'clowns in Canberra,' Duniam believes young people will still be drawn to politics. None of his sons currently want to enter politics, but he would support them if they changed their minds.
Duniam concluded by reflecting on his career: 'It's been the privilege and honour of a lifetime to represent Tasmania in the Senate.'
