Emma Pritchard, Clarence Valley Independent

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan has revealed his resignation from the Coalition’s Shadow Ministry last week was a matter of principle.

Speaking with the Clarence Valley Independent following the announcement on January 21, Mr Hogan said he could not support what he described as rushed legislation, citing its potential impacts on free speech.

Mr Hogan said his resignation from Opposition Leader Sussan Ley’s Shadow Ministry followed the resignation of three other Nationals senators amidst a fractious relationship between [sic] agrarian political party and the Coalition.

After delivering one of his most impassionate speeches in his parliamentary career during an intense debate surrounding the Albanese Government’s ambitious legislation to combat antisemitism, hate, and extremism in response to the horrific antisemitic terrorist attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney on December 14 last year, Mr Hogan said while the Nationals support outlawing violent extremist groups and organisations, he spoke of concerns regarding the drafting of the legislation which included phrases such as ‘psychological harm’.

While the Nationals had previously worked to improve the legislation and proposed amendments to ensure current laws would be tightened while confining them to inciting or encouraging violence, Mr Hogan said he was uncomfortable with the words ‘psychological harm’ and questioned their inclusion and how they could be interpreted.

In a public statement, Mr Hogan described the addition in the legislation as a grey area where free speech for Australians could be impinged, adding it was “not in the best interest of our country.”

Mr Hogan told the Clarence Valley Independent those concerns subsequently led to the Nationals opposing the bill when the amendments failed to pass.

A self-described proud National and party member, Mr Hogan said while the decision came at a personal cost, it is reflective of his ongoing commitment to always stand up for his country and do what voters expect of their representatives.

In a follow up statement, Mr Hogan revealed his Senate team including Senator Bridget McKenzie, Senator Susan McDonald, and Senator Ross Cadell were forced to resign for taking a principled party room position after they crossed the floor to vote against the legislation and his National Shadow Ministry colleagues had resigned as well.

After the Albanese Government’s legislation to combat antisemitism, hate, and extremism passed the Parliament in a late-night session of the Senate last week, the Attorney-General, the Honourable Michelle Rowland, said it sends a clear message that those who seek to spread hate and division, including those who seek to radicalise Australian youths, will be met with appropriate penalties.

“The passing of these laws to combat antisemitism, hate, and extremism is another vital step towards a safer, more unified Australia,” she said.

This article appeared in Clarence Valley Independent, 30 January 2026.