Nationals Dump Net-Zero Commitment, Coalition Faces Political Uncertainty

The Nationals party in Australia has officially abandoned the net-zero emissions by 2050 target, opting instead to tie emissions reductions to averages of similar countries, marking a significant departure from the bipartisan climate policy established under the Paris Agreement. This decision has intensified internal divisions within the Coalition, particularly among the Liberals, who are debating whether to maintain the net-zero commitment or align with the Nationals, risking further party splits. The fallout from this policy shift has contributed to the Coalition's declining political fortunes, with recent polls showing a record-low primary vote and diminished approval ratings for Liberal leader Sussan Ley. Experts warn that while the Nationals' move may resonate with some regional voters, it poses a strategic risk in urban areas, where climate activism and support for net-zero goals remain strong. The Liberals face the challenge of balancing climate commitments with coalition unity, as abandoning net zero could alienate key voter bases and affect their chances of forming a majority government. Overall, the Coalition's stance on net-zero emissions is causing significant political instability and reshaping Australia's climate policy debate.