Jacinta Nampijinpa Price has made a dramatic comeback into federal opposition politics in Australia after months out of the spotlight. In a move that has shocked some and delighted others, newly chosen Opposition Leader Angus Taylor has appointed her as Shadow Minister for Small Business, Skills and Training, putting her back on the national stage. This appointment comes after she was previously removed from the Coalition’s frontbench last year over controversial remarks about immigration and migrant communities.
This reshuffle not only changes the face of the Liberal opposition but also highlights deeper battles over direction, identity and policy focus within the party. Supporters see Price as a strong voice for small business and traditional values, while critics warn that her past comments and polarising profile may complicate the Coalition’s appeal to broader voters.
Price’s Appointment Signals New Priorities for the Opposition
In announcing his new shadow ministry, Opposition Leader Angus Taylor has placed small business at the centre of his political strategy as the Coalition prepares to take on the Labor government. Taylor told reporters that small businesses are “the engine room of our economy” and that Price will be expected to aggressively advocate for entrepreneurs and workers.
Price will also take on responsibility for skills and training, a topic that resonates with voters concerned about job security and future workforce needs. The promotion gives her a significant platform to critique Labor’s record on cost-of-living pressures, workforce shortages and vocational education funding, issues that are central to many small business owners across Australia.
This move comes after Price was sidelined in September 2025 when then-Opposition Leader Sussan Ley removed her from the frontbench following statements she made about Indian migrants and voting patterns, comments that generated strong backlash from parts of the community and other politicians. At that time, the shadow portfolio she held was redistributed, and her public political role was reduced.
The Political Context Behind the Return
Price’s reinstatement comes amid wider reshaping of the Coalition shadow cabinet, triggered by a leadership spill earlier this month. Angus Taylor challenged Sussan Ley for the leadership of the Liberal Party and defeated her in a party room vote, with Taylor securing 34 votes to Ley’s 17. After his victory, Taylor quickly moved to reconfigure the opposition team, elevating allies such as Price and sidelining several of Ley’s supporters.
Taylor’s decision to bring Price back into the frontbench reflects a broader shift in the party towards more conservative policy voices. Alongside Price, other conservatives such as Andrew Hastie have been promoted to influential roles. Several moderate figures and Ley loyalists were either demoted or left out of the shadow cabinet entirely.
Some observers view this shift as a deliberate attempt by Taylor to reconnect with parts of the Coalition base that felt underrepresented, especially on issues like immigration, community values and economic management. But these changes have also sparked concern among more centrist commentators who fear the party may struggle to broaden its appeal to swing voters.
Price’s Platform and Controversial Record
Jacinta Nampijinpa Price’s political journey has been marked by passionate grassroots campaigning and controversy. She grew up in the Northern Territory and became a Senator in 2022 after winning preselection for the Country Liberal Party before joining the Liberal Party room federally in 2025. Her political profile has often been shaped by her strong views on national identity, immigration and community values.
Her removal from the shadow ministry last year was linked to her refusal to back Sussan Ley’s leadership and her comments on Indian-Australian voting motivations, which drew sharp criticism from opponents who said they were divisive. At the time, she declined to apologise for her remarks, stating she would continue to speak on the issues she cared about.
Price’s critics argue that bringing her back into a prominent role risks reigniting old tensions, especially at a moment when the Coalition is seeking to broaden its support base after a difficult election result in 2025. Others note that her energy, grassroots support and communication skills could help mobilise parts of the electorate that feel overlooked by the current government.
What This Means for Small Business and National Politics
Small business operators across Australia face mounting pressures from rising operational costs, labour shortages and economic uncertainty. By appointing Price to the small business and skills portfolio, the opposition is signalling a commitment to spotlight these issues and propose alternatives to the government’s policies. Federal Small Business Council data shows that nearly three million Australian businesses employ millions of Australians, making this sector vital to national economic well-being.
Price’s role will involve advocating for policy changes to ease regulatory burdens, improve access to training and apprenticeships, and enhance support for business growth outside major cities. It is a strategic position that could allow the Coalition to connect with voters who feel the current government has not done enough to support local enterprises.
Her appointment also places her in the centre of debates on immigration, workforce development and national identity, topics that Price has often made key parts of her political platform. How she balances these matters with the broader economic responsibilities of her role may shape public perceptions of the opposition in the lead up to the next federal election.
A New Chapter with High Stakes
Jacinta Price’s reinstatement to the shadow cabinet is about more than just a new title. It represents a renewed political purpose, a recalibration of the Coalition’s messaging and an opportunity for Price to reset her public image. For many of her supporters, this is a sign that experience and conviction matter in Australian politics. For others, it is a reminder of the ongoing tensions within parties over leadership and direction.
At a time when Australians are increasingly concerned about economic pressures, cost of living, training opportunities and job security, the small business portfolio is a significant spotlight. Price’s work in this space could influence national conversations and shift political dynamics ahead of future elections.
As the debate unfolds, readers are encouraged to share their views on whether this appointment will strengthen or weaken the Opposition’s voice on small business and national issues. Do you think this move will help Australian small businesses thrive or divide opinion further? Comment your thoughts.
