CANBERRA, 15 February 2026 – Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price is poised for a significant return to the Liberal Party’s frontbench following a dramatic leadership spill that has reshaped the Australian Opposition. The Northern Territory Senator, who was sidelined five months ago, has emerged as a key powerbroker in the ascension of Angus Taylor to the Liberal leadership.
Leadership Spill and Political Realignment
In a week of high-stakes political maneuvering, Angus Taylor successfully challenged Sussan Ley for the leadership of the Liberal Party. Senator Price was a vocal critic of the outgoing leader, claiming Ley had “ample opportunity” to steer the party back on track but failed to reconnect with the base. Following the caucus meeting on 12 February 2026, where Taylor was confirmed as leader, reports indicate that Price is a primary candidate to rejoin the shadow ministry.
Price’s return marks a reversal of her “exile” which began in September 2025. At that time, she was sacked from the frontbench by Sussan Ley after a series of controversial remarks regarding Indian migration and a refusal to publicly endorse Ley’s leadership during a press conference in Perth.
Ongoing Migration Controversy
Despite the change in leadership, Senator Price has refused to back down from the comments that originally led to her dismissal. Just hours ago, the Senator reignited the debate over her claims that the Albanese Government prioritises specific migration cohorts for electoral gain. Addressing the “Indian migration controversy,” Price issued a defiant “come at me” to critics, maintaining her stance that she will not be silenced on matters of “mass migration.”
This firebrand approach was also on display during recent Senate Estimates. Price engaged in a heated exchange with Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young, accusing her of “whitesplaining” during a debate regarding Australia Day and Indigenous policy. The exchange highlights Price’s continued role as a central, albeit polarising, figure in Australia’s cultural and political discourse.
Career Profile and Background
Jacinta Nampijinpa Price has had a rapid ascent in federal politics, moving from local government in Alice Springs to becoming a national figurehead during the 2023 Voice to Parliament referendum. Before her entry into the Senate, she was known for her work in cross-cultural consultancy and her advocacy for Aboriginal autonomy.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Role | Senator for the Northern Territory |
| Political Party | Country Liberal Party (CLP) / Liberal Party (Federal) |
| Elected to Senate | 2022 |
| Former Roles | Deputy Mayor of Alice Springs, Shadow Minister for Indigenous Australians |
| Key Publications | “Matters of the Heart” (Memoir) |
| Professional Background | Cross-cultural consultant, Executive Director at Yangapi Productions |
Future Outlook under Angus Taylor
As the new Liberal leader Angus Taylor eyes his “new team,” political analysts predict that Price will be restored to a senior portfolio, likely returning to Indigenous Affairs or a role within the Expenditure Review Committee. Taylor has identified immigration and the cost of living as his top priorities, areas where Price has already established a strong, if controversial, public profile.
Her reinstatement is seen by many conservative “insurgents” as a necessary step to “rally the base” ahead of the next federal election, though it remains a point of contention for those concerned about the party’s standing in multicultural communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Jacinta Price removed from the shadow ministry in 2025?
She was sacked by former leader Sussan Ley in September 2025 following a refusal to apologise for comments regarding Indian migration and a public failure to endorse Ley’s leadership.
Is Jacinta Price returning to the frontbench?
As of 15 February 2026, it is highly anticipated that she will be appointed to a frontline role under the new leadership of Angus Taylor, though official portfolio announcements are still being finalised.
What is Senator Price’s stance on the Voice to Parliament?
Senator Price was a leading figure in the “No” campaign during the 2023 referendum, advocating for Aboriginal autonomy and practical outcomes over constitutional recognition.