Dugald Saunders, the leader of the New South Wales Nationals, has resigned from his position less than three years after taking on the role. His departure came just one day after his daughter, Charlie Saunders, appeared in a documentary focusing on the adult industry, raising questions about the timing of his decision. Gurmesh Singh, the Member for Coffs Harbour, has been elected unopposed as his successor, marking a historic moment as he becomes the first Sikh leader of the NSW Nationals.
On November 17, 2023, Mr. Saunders announced to his colleagues that he would step down to prioritize family matters. Speculation has surrounded the connection between his resignation and his daughter’s involvement in the documentary, which his office has strongly denied. Charlie Saunders, who also uses the names Willow Ray or Willow Rae, debuted in the six-part online reality series titled Spicy Summer, which follows creators on the platform OnlyFans. The series was filmed in Sydney’s eastern suburbs during September and October.
In the first episode, released on November 16, Charlie revealed she began creating adult content at the age of 18. Previously a faceless creator, she cited inspiration from TikTok for her decision to join OnlyFans. During the episode, she candidly discussed her experiences of bullying in high school in regional New South Wales, which had a profound impact on her mental health.
A spokesperson for Mr. Saunders told The Australian that his resignation was unrelated to his daughter’s documentary. Party chairman Rick Colless expressed surprise at the announcement, noting that Mr. Saunders had recently sought to spend more time with his unwell mother and had been away from home for extended periods. Reports indicate that multiple family members are facing serious health challenges. Sources close to the family mentioned that they fully support Charlie and that Mr. Saunders was aware of her plans to feature in the reality program.
In a public statement, Mr. Saunders expressed that leading the NSW Nationals had been a significant honour but that it was the right moment for him to step back and focus on family and personal wellbeing. The 52-year-old politician entered the NSW Parliament in 2019 as the representative for Dubbo. Prior to his political career, he had a lengthy background in broadcasting, including serving as a commentator during the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games and as a presenter for the ABC in Dubbo. He held positions as Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Western New South Wales before becoming the leader of the NSW Nationals in May 2023.
Opposition Leader Mark Speakman praised Mr. Saunders for his fairness and intelligence. Federal Nationals MP Wes Fang acknowledged the challenges of the leadership role and understood Mr. Saunders’ decision to step aside. The NSW Nationals, representing rural and regional voters, have maintained a coalition with the Liberal Party since 1927. Following the 2023 election, the party moved into opposition.
While there had been some quiet concerns regarding Mr. Saunders’ leadership, there were no formal plans for a challenge. Gurmesh Singh, who has represented Coffs Harbour since 2019, has previously served as the Nationals’ Whip and held several shadow portfolios. Coming from a family with a strong agricultural background, he worked as a blueberry and macadamia farmer prior to entering politics. Party figures believe he has the full backing necessary as he prepares for the upcoming election, which is expected by March 2027.
