Gurmesh Singh has been elected unopposed as the new leader of the NSW National Party, less than a day after Dugald Saunders stepped down from the role. By 9News.
Tamworth MP Kevin Anderson was also elected unopposed as deputy leader.
“It is an honour to be chosen by my peers to lead the NSW Nationals, alongside Deputy Leader Kevin Anderson,” Singh said. He confirmed that Sarah Mitchell will continue in the party’s Upper House leadership team.
“Our focus remains on delivering the strongest possible representation for regional NSW.”
Singh thanked Saunders for his leadership over the past two and a half years, praising his contribution during a challenging period.
“The wellbeing of regional communities is at the heart of what we do, and I’m grateful to my colleagues for the opportunity to continue the important work of the Nationals across NSW,” he said.
Singh has served in the NSW Legislative Assembly since 2019, representing Coffs Harbour. Before entering politics, he worked as a blueberry and macadamia farmer.
Saunders’ resignation came as a surprise to some within the party. Announcing his decision, he said it had been “an honour” to lead through a difficult opposition period.
“It’s a tough call, but the right time for me to step back and focus on my family and myself,” he said. “It’s also the right moment to hand over to a new leader ahead of the next election.”