Story perspectives

Joyce Calls for Skilled Migrants, Urges Critics to Leave

2/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

Barnaby Joyce (One Nation) urged immigrants who complain about Australia to return home.
Speaking on The Karl Stefanovic Show, he urged prioritising skilled migrants in construction and limiting welfare-dependent entrants.
Joyce was surprised by support after joining One Nation, whose popularity has risen and outpaced the Coalition.
He left the Nationals, citing a dysfunctional relationship with leader David Littleproud, broader disconnection in conservative politics, and the loss of traditional representation.

1 of 1

Story summary

Barnaby Joyce (One Nation) urged immigrants who complain about Australia to return home.
Speaking on The Karl Stefanovic Show, he urged prioritising skilled migrants in construction and limiting welfare-dependent entrants.
Joyce was surprised by support after joining One Nation, whose popularity has risen and outpaced the Coalition.
He left the Nationals, citing a dysfunctional relationship with leader David Littleproud, broader disconnection in conservative politics, and the loss of traditional representation.