Mr Grylls said the decision would not have been easy for the member to make given his long association with the Labor Party.

“Mr Catania believes in delivering the best outcome for his constituents in the North West and the failure of the Labor Party to back Royalties for Regions was pivotal to his decision,” Mr Grylls said.

“Royalties for Regions provides a new focus on people living in regional WA and will allow a portion of the significant benefits that we receive in mining and petroleum royalties to be reinvested across regional communities.

“In talks I had with Mr Catania in the last week he said he was continually frustrated with Labor’s refusal to back the program despite the overwhelming support it receives in his electorate and across regional communities.”

Mr Grylls said The Nationals were about delivering Royalties for Regions and rebuilding regional Western Australia.

“We are happy to work with any member of Parliament that wishes to assist the Liberal-Nationals Government deliver Royalties for Regions,” he said.

“I look forward to working alongside Vince in his electorate and I know Hon Wendy Duncan will welcome his support in the Mining and Pastoral Region as we continue to roll out Royalties for Regions.”