National Party leader David Littleproud says Barnaby Joyce's decision to quit the party was "disappointing" and he had broken his contract with those who elected him.
"It is disappointing for the people of New England and disappointing for the loyal National Party members who tirelessly volunteered over the past two decades to support his political ambitions," Littleproud said in a statement on Thursday.
Littleproud said the party had supported Joyce through "tough times" and his "darkest moments" and he had been encouraged to stay.
"Barnaby has chosen to walk away from The Nationals’ team — a strong team that fights for regional Australia and delivers genuine solutions for regional Australians in Government," he said.
"The Nationals will continue to fight for regional Australia and work as a team to get things done for local communities."
Earlier, the former deputy prime minister used the final sitting day to deliver a brief speech to the chamber announcing his decision.
He cited differences with Littleproud.
"After 30 years with the National Party, I am resigning from the party. And that leaves me with a heavy heart," he said.
"What I have to do, if I'm going to continue on that fight, is get myself into a better position than the ejection chair of the backbench of the Coalition in Opposition."
Joyce said he was concerned about dealing with the cost of living crisis, regional communities and hospitals, as well as an ever more "provocative" Chinese government.
However, it is unclear how he will continue to advocate for these issues as his political future remains uncertain.
He previously led the party on two occasions and announced earlier this year he would not recontest his seat in New England in 2028.
That could leave the door open for him to pursue a seat in the Senate.
Tipped to join One Nation
In recent weeks, there had been speculation Joyce would resign and join One Nation, and he had been asked about his plans on several occasions.
"I just don't want any circus. I'm trying to wait till the end of the sitting week," Joyce told 2GB radio on Monday when asked about his political future.
But he later told reporters on Thursday he hadn't made up his mind on whether to join One Nation.
But former National Party colleague and current senator Bridget McKenzie told reporters earlier Joyce's reputation would be "trashed" if he ran with One Nation.
"He's actually done serious things, and his legacy is significant, but that will be trashed if he goes to One Nation, and I think that's the big difference, and that's the question he's going to have to ask himself."
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