Mr Cobb, who held the seat from 2007-2016, said the party needed to make a change from Barnaby Joyce as leader.

“You need a leader who can communicate,” he said.

“Obviously the other situation couldn’t continue.”

Riverina MP Mr McCormack was elected leader, and therefore Deputy Prime Minister, at a party meeting in Canberra on Monday.

Mr Joyce stepped down on Friday following weeks of controversy when it was revealed he was expecting a baby with former staff member, Vikki Campion.

Further heat was placed on Mr Joyce to consider his position when it became known that Ms Campion had also been given high-paying jobs in the offices of two of his colleagues that no-one else had the opportunity to apply for.

Mr Cobb said Mr McCormack would be a different style leader to Mr Joyce.

“Yes he is very different to Barnaby but what they want is very different to Barnaby,” he said.

“Michael was actually in the running when Barnaby got the job.

“He is a very straight guy, he takes his work very seriously.

“His parents had a farm so it’s not like he was not aware of [rural issues].

“Michael will take everyone’s view into account whereas Barnaby might not.

“I think Michael is certainly the only real choice.”

He said the party needed stability.

“Outside of regional and rural industry, businesses look to the National party to be a commonsense rock within the Coalition,” he said.