Premier Dominic Perrottet welcomes new NSW Nationals leader Paul Toole

Mr Toole, the Member for Bathurst, was elected leader of the NSW Nationals just 24 hours after the NSW Liberal Party elected Mr Perrottet their leader, becoming the state's 46^th premier.

The pair will fill the positions vacated over the past week by the resignations of Gladys Berejiklian and John Barilaro, and Mr Perrottet promised a "strong and united Liberals and Nationals Government" as the state emerges from pandemic lockdowns.

"In electing Paul Toole to lead their party, the NSW Nationals have sent a strong signal that the NSW Liberals and Nationals will continue to build a better future for the bush with energy and optimism," Mr Perrottet said.

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"As a loyal deputy in the NSW Nationals to departing Deputy Premier John Barilaro, Paul knows what it takes to lead, and I want to again thank John for his service to the people of NSW.

"Paul is a fighter and a pragmatist who has a strong track-record of delivering for regional and rural NSW, most recently as the Minister for Regional Transport and Roads.

"He has been a strong voice within the Government and has stood up for regional farming communities in times of drought, flood and fire, and is a staunch advocate for investing in new opportunities for people in the bush."

Mr Perrottet also welcomed the election of Bronnie Taylor as the Nationals' deputy leader.

"Bronnie Taylor has been a powerhouse and worked tirelessly as Minister for Mental Health at a critical time, ensuring vital support is there for people who need it in the aftermath of drought, bushfires and the pandemic," he said.

"In Bronnie the NSW Nationals have elected the first female deputy leader of the party in more than 100 years, and she will continue to be a voice for progress within the government.

"As we emerge from the pandemic, we have an unprecedented opportunity to strengthen our regions and make them even more attractive places to live, work, run a business and raise a family."

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