West Australian Liberal leader Basil Zempilas has pushed back against federal MP Andrew Hastie's criticism over net zero emissions targets, asserting his leadership role within the party. The dispute emerged after Hastie's motion at the WA Liberals' State Council meeting to scrap the 2050 net zero target was passed, but Zempilas publicly stated he had no issue with the target.
Zempilas emphasized the need for the party to learn from recent election losses, particularly among younger voters, women, and city dwellers. He reaffirmed his support for the status quo on net zero, as well as for Welcome to Country ceremonies and the Aboriginal flag, dismissing a motion to remove them from official events.
Hastie, in an email to supporters, expressed disappointment, claiming the motion reflected mainstream Australian concerns about energy costs and sovereignty. Zempilas responded by noting the motions were for the federal party to consider and highlighted his engagement with West Australians to understand their priorities.
The internal party debate occurs as federal Liberal leader Sussan Ley reviews the party's energy policy, following electoral losses to Labor and teal independents. Labor increased its WA seats in the May election, while independent Kate Chaney retained Curtin.
