Bauer Media’s The Australian Women’s Weekly today publishes an exclusive interview with Natalie Joyce, the former second lady, who opens up about the breakdown of her marriage and the events that have taken place in the past two years.

As part of The Australian Women’s Weekly’s special issue celebrating rural Australia, Natalie opens up on the toughest two years of her life, her husband, Barnaby Joyce’s affair and how the love and support of the greater rural community ultimately saved her.

The unpaid and candid interview was secured by The Australian Women’s Weekly’s journalist and friend of Natalie’s, Lizzie Wilson, and was agreed upon prior to the Sunday Night exclusive with Barnaby Joyce and his current partner Vicki Campion. At no point was the topic of payment for the story raised, despite numerous offers from other media outlets. The courageous mum was ultimately driven to speak to The Weekly by her four daughters.  She says in the interview “I’m normally a very private person but I knew I had to find my voice. I’m doing this so the girls feel empowered, and know their mum stood up and defended our fine name.”

A proud country girl herself, Natalie also wanted to pay tribute to rural women across the country and take part in this special edition of The Weekly.

 “Much has been written, discussed and debated in regards to the Barnaby Joyce affair and despite intense interest from many quarters, Natalie Joyce has remained silent – until now”, says Editor-In-Chief of The Australian Women’s Weekly, Nicole Byers. “This interview is intimate and personal, and shows a side of the story that has never been seen before; that of Natalie as a wife and mother to four beautiful daughters.”

“With grace and conviction, Natalie reveals what it’s like to be a woman whose husband’s extramarital affair garnered national news and public debate. In so bravely and eloquently finding her voice, she will no doubt inspire women across Australia and we’re extremely grateful Natalie trusted The Australian Women’s Weekly to tell her story.”

 The Australian Women’s Weekly July issue is on sale today.

Read Editor-In-Chief Nicole Byers’ story behind the cover story now on nowtolove.com.au the digital home of The Australian Women’s Weekly.