Matt Canavan to contest Capricornia after Michelle Landry retirement, possible showdown with One Nation’s James Ashby

Nationals leader Matt Canavan will run for the lower house seat of Capricornia in Queensland at the next federal election, following the retirement of sitting MP Michelle Landry. The move sets up a potential contest with James Ashby, chief of staff to One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, in a key battle for regional representation. Canavan, currently a senator, is shifting to the House of Representatives in a bid to strengthen the Nationals’ presence in central Queensland. The seat has been held by the Nationals since 2013, but One Nation has been building support in the region. The outcome could shape the balance of power in a tight parliament, with both parties vying for rural and regional votes. A face-off between Canavan and Ashby would be a high-profile clash of political styles and priorities. With the election expected by mid-2025, all eyes are on Capricornia as a bellwether for the Coalition’s fortunes in Queensland.