Overview
- Scott Morrison, who endorsed the pledge in 2021, now argues rigid timetables are ideology and says he supports only an aspiration for net zero.
- He cites rising energy demand from AI and data centres and shifts in US politics to argue private capital should drive emissions cuts.
- The Liberal Party’s review is reported to favor removing the 2050 date from legislation while retaining an aspirational target.
- The Nationals review is expected to take a harder line, and Barnaby Joyce with Michael McCormack have backed a bill to repeal net zero.
- Labor’s net zero by 2050 and at least 62% emissions cuts by 2035 remain law, with independent analysts warning the plan likely falls short of a 1.5°C pathway.