The Liberal Party has walked away from ‘net zero by 2050’, ending weeks of speculation that it would change its position following the Nationals decision to dump the 2050 target.

Independent Federal Member for Curtin Kate Chaney MP says the party is ignoring the principles of Liberal policy when it comes to climate change and is putting itself at odds with everyday Australians.

“For more than a decade, the Coalition has tied itself in knots over climate and energy policy. Yet, if Liberals remembered their founding principles of rational economics, market-based solutions, scientific evidence and long-term thinking, their path forward would be obvious and justifiable,” Ms Chaney said.
“But instead of being guided by principles and values, we’ve seen the Coalition waste a decade of policy-making on political point-scoring, fearmongering and power-seeking.
The Liberal Party’s move away from net zero is not just an abandonment of our international climate commitments, it’s an abdication of credibility as an alternative government.
This move puts the Liberal Party further out of touch with the majority of Australians who want ambitious climate policy. Attacking net zero is populist opportunism - a political distraction and a desperate attempt to attract votes from a declining base.
A responsible Opposition would be holding the government to account, while relentlessly pushing for regulatory reform that eliminates duplication and unjustified red or green tape in the energy transition. It would be speeding up decision-making; prioritising predictability to draw investment and build confidence.
The vast and continuing shifts in Coalition energy policy have destabilised the energy market with uncertainty that has delayed investment and driven up costs. Australia needs a serious, stable energy transition pathway.”

Ms Chaney won the previously safe Liberal seat of Curtin at the 2022 federal election, with a values-led campaign focused on climate action and political integrity.

“Australia cannot tackle climate change alone, but Australians know we must play our part. We are well-positioned to be a climate leader, and net zero is the international framework for coordinated global action,” Ms Chaney said.
“The government’s approach to the energy transition has been slow and disjointed, but the Liberal Party has failed to position itself as a credible, pro-market alternative.
Unless the Liberal Party reconnects with its fundamental principles and commits to ambitious climate action it will relegate itself unending opposition.”

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