News

Birrell resigns from shadow ministerial roles after ‘shambolic’ bill process

By Taylah Baker

Jan 27, 2026

Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell steps down as Shadow Assistant Minister for Regional Education and Regional Health. Photo: AAP/Mick Tsikas. Photo by MICK TSIKAS

Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell has resigned from his shadow ministerial roles, saying his position had become “untenable”.

Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content

Mr Birrell confirmed he had formally advised Opposition Leader Federal Member for Farrer Sussan Ley (NSW) of his decision to step down as Shadow Assistant Minister for Regional Education and Shadow Assistant Minister for Regional Health.

The resignation follows internal divisions over the Combatting Antisemitism, Hate and Extremism (Criminal and Migration Laws Bill 2026).

Mr Birrell said the Nationals supported the intent of the legislation but took issue with how it was handled.

“The process was shambolic, rushed and ultimately unsatisfactory,” he said.

He explained the Nationals initially chose not to oppose the bill in the House of Representatives while seeking amendments in the Senate.

“When those amendments were defeated, my Senate colleagues acted in accordance with the decision of the Nationals Party Room and voted against the bill,” he said.

Mr Birrell added the bill “continued to change” and agreement could not be reached with Liberal colleagues.

He said Nationals leader David Littleproud had warned that if some resignations were accepted, “the entire National Party ministry would resign to take collective responsibility”.