Australia’s Liberal Party Splits Over Net Zero Climate Commitment

A fierce internal battle is brewing within Australia’s Liberal Party as MPs clash over whether to maintain the country’s net zero emissions commitment. The dispute has intensified following the National Party’s recent decision to abandon the climate target, putting pressure on Liberal leader Sussan Ley to follow suit.

Liberal MPs from urban constituencies are fighting back, warning that ditching net zero would spell electoral disaster in city seats where climate action remains a priority for voters. South Australian Senator Andrew McLachlan is leading the resistance, insisting the campaign to preserve the climate policy is “not over” despite mounting pressure from conservative factions within the Coalition.

The stakes extend beyond domestic politics. MPs advocating for net zero warn that abandoning Australia’s climate commitments would severely damage the country’s international standing and credibility on the global stage. This comes at a critical time when nations worldwide are intensifying efforts to meet climate targets under the Paris Agreement.

The emissions policy showdown has emerged as a significant threat to Sussan Ley’s leadership, with a crucial party meeting scheduled for late November that could determine the Coalition’s climate stance heading into the next federal election. The outcome will likely shape not only the party’s electoral prospects in climate-conscious urban areas but also Australia’s role in international climate negotiations and its relationships with key allies who have made strong net zero commitments.