Dugald Saunders has quit as NSW Nationals leader after two and a half years in the job, in a move that has shocked his colleagues.

The member for Dubbo announced his decision via a media release and has not given any interviews.

"It's a difficult decision but it is the right time for me to take a step back and focus more on my family and myself,"

he said.

"It's also the right time to allow a new leader to take up the fight ahead of the next election.

"I will continue to serve the people of the Dubbo electorate as their local member."

Mr Saunders said it had been an "honour" to lead the parliamentary party during a "challenging time in opposition".

One of those challenges reared its head last week, as state Nationals MPs offered 'in principle' support for their federal colleagues's d

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