In an unprecedented and shocking attempt at deflecting comments made by the Prime Minister, Mr Joyce was on the war path when he met with media cameras at Parliament House of Friday, February ,16.

Mr Joyce came out swinging in a scathing attack on the Prime Minister after Malcolm Turnbull made comments suggesting Joyce take some time to think about his current situation.

“Comments by the Prime Minister yesterday at his press conference, in many instances, were inept and most definitely in many instances unnecessary," Mr Joyce said.

“All that [the comments] is going to do is basically once more pull the scab off for everyone to look at.”

In what looks like a threat to the stability of the Coalition’s now awkward partnership, Mr Joyce said there is nothing the "Nationals dislike more than implied intervention into the party processes of the National Party – we are our own independent political unit and we make our own decisions, especially around those who are the office holders." 

Nationals MP, and Member for Cowper, Luke Hartsuyker said that he stands behind his leader, but acknowledges the rift currently between the Liberal and National leaders.

“It is important that as Coalition partners we work hard for all Australians, but we are two separate parties and sometimes we have our moments; but we will get through this,” Mr Hartsuyker said.

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“Barnaby Joyce needs to work through his issues and it is unfortunate that by virtue of his position Barnaby Joyce’s situation is in the public arena.

“All Coalitions go through their ups and downs but this issue is bigger than the two incumbent leaders, and moving forward we all need to continue to work together, because the alternative is a Shorten Labor Government with higher taxes.”

When asked if he had received any feedback from the local community, Mr Hartsuyker conceded that not all his constituents agree that Mr Joyce should stay on as Nationals leader, but that he would stand up and support the embattled Joyce.

“Yes my office has been getting a lot of feedback about this issue with a broad range of views, some people say he should resign but others are calling on me to support him,” he said.

“I do support Barnaby Joyce as leader of the Nationals and I will continue to do so.”