Overview
- The Nationals have formally dumped the 2050 net zero commitment, with leader David Littleproud declaring a new platform focused on cheaper energy and emissions reduction on different terms.
- Sussan Ley says the Liberal Party will settle its position within a fortnight and before parliament returns, pledging no captain’s calls and emphasising affordable power and responsible emissions cuts.
- Newspoll shows the Coalition’s primary vote at 24 percent and Ley’s net approval at minus 33, feeding talk of a challenge even as Andrew Hastie and Angus Taylor publicly signal support for her to continue.
- Moderate Liberals and state figures warn abandoning net zero would damage the party in urban and younger electorates, as WA’s Basil Zempilas urges retention and NSW Nationals consider following the federal move.
- Coalition cohesion is at risk, with Liberals weighing a separate stance from the Nationals and senator Dave Sharma saying a split should be on the table if policies clash, while Barnaby Joyce keeps open a potential One Nation switch.