The Liberal Party appears to be moving toward abandoning its net zero emissions target, with internal divisions intensifying ahead of a joint Coalition party room meeting. Senior sources indicate that the commitment, originally made in 2021, is now considered by some as no longer viable.
Moderate Liberals, including South Australian Senator Anne Ruston, argue that completely dropping net zero would undermine the party's credibility. However, the right faction, led by figures such as Angus Taylor and Senators Michaelia Cash, Jonno Duniam, and James Paterson, is pushing to follow the Nationals in abandoning the target.
The Nationals formally dropped their net zero commitment on Sunday, with leader David Littleproud confirming the decision. This has sparked anger among moderate Liberals, who view it as an attempt to drag the party to a more conservative position, similar to the Voice referendum debate.
Liberal Senator Andrew Bragg suggested that while a net zero commitment should be retained, the timeline could be extended beyond 2050, aligning with the Paris Agreement's broader timeframe. He criticized Labor's approach to climate transition for eroding support in regional areas.
The leadership group, led by Sussan Ley, is working on a plan to maintain Coalition unity. A final position is expected before the last sitting week of the year, with a proposal to be presented to the party room. Shadow Energy Minister Dan Tehan expressed confidence that a consensus can be reached.
