Barnaby Joyce Calls Renewables and Power Rebates a 'Swindle,' Leaves Door Open on Extension

Overview

• The Nationals MP labeled renewable energy "intermittent" and a "total swindle," claiming it has caused a structural decline in the power grid.
• He described energy rebates as a short-term "Band-Aid" and attacked Labor’s new Solar Saver plan that offers three hours of free power to some customers on the default market offer.
• Pressed on whether he would back extending rebates, Joyce said politicians could be "politically jammed" into supporting them and added, "Let’s see the detail."
• Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has not ruled out extending the $150 Energy Bill Relief Fund rebate, which applies to most households and small businesses until December 31, 2025.
• Joyce’s comments came during appearances on ABC and Seven’s Sunrise alongside Labor’s Tanya Plibersek, sharpening the political fight over energy policy and cost-of-living relief.