Former New South Wales Deputy Premier John Barilaro has officially returned to politics, taking up a part-time advisory role with Nationals Senator Ross Cadell as the party prepares for the next federal election. The appointment marks Barilaro's first formal political role since resigning from the NSW Parliament in 2021.
Senator Cadell confirmed that Barilaro has been employed to assist with constituent engagement, stakeholder relations and regional policy development. He said Barilaro's extensive experience representing regional New South Wales and leading the NSW Nationals would strengthen the senator's office as it develops policy and engages with regional communities in the lead-up to the federal election.
Barilaro served as Deputy Premier of New South Wales and leader of the NSW Nationals between 2016 and 2021, representing the electorate of Monaro. During his time in government he also held portfolios including Regional New South Wales, Industry and Trade. He resigned from parliament in October 2021, stating at the time that his decision was motivated by personal reasons following a demanding political career.
His departure from politics was followed by significant controversy over his appointment as New South Wales' Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner to the Americas in New York. The high-profile appointment attracted intense public scrutiny after questions were raised about the recruitment process and whether proper procedures had been followed. Barilaro resigned from the position only weeks after accepting it amid widespread political and media attention. Subsequent investigations did not find that he had engaged in corrupt conduct or misconduct.
Since leaving public office, Barilaro has worked outside politics, including in the private sector as a building and pest inspector. Although he has remained active within Nationals circles—including being elected to the party's central council earlier this year—his appointment to Senator Cadell's office represents his most direct return to political work.
Senator Cadell described the move as an opportunity to broaden the expertise available to his office, particularly on issues affecting regional Australia. He said Barilaro's knowledge of regional industries, infrastructure, agriculture and community concerns would contribute to policy development and strengthen engagement with constituents across New South Wales.
The appointment has generated renewed public interest because of Barilaro's high-profile political career and the controversies that followed his resignation from parliament. Supporters argue his experience in regional government makes him well suited to an advisory position, while critics have questioned whether his return could revive debate over past political issues.
Although Barilaro is not returning as an elected representative, his new role places him back within the Nationals' political organisation at a time when the Coalition is preparing for the next federal election. His appointment signals that the party continues to value his experience and connections across regional New South Wales.
