Liberals Formally Drop Net Zero Commitment
The Australian Liberal party has officially abandoned its commitment to a firm net zero emissions target, following the lead of their Coalition partners the Nationals. Deputy leader Sussan Ley confirmed the policy shift during a media appearance at Parliament House in Canberra alongside frontbencher Dan Tehan.
While moderate Liberal MPs will still be permitted to describe lower emissions as a "welcome outcome", the party has removed any binding commitment to achieve net zero. Mr Tehan suggested that unspecified "available technology" would enable Australia to contribute its fair share towards global emissions reduction efforts.
Swift Political Backlash Erupts
The policy reversal prompted immediate criticism from across the political spectrum. Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young described the Liberals as "a bunch of nutters", while independent MP Zali Steggall declared the Coalition "unelectable" following the announcement.
Adding to internal party tensions, South Australian Liberal senator Andrew McLachlan wrote in the Guardian that "you cannot claim to be of the right of politics and shy away from targets that hold you to account". The comments highlight significant divisions within the party over climate policy direction.
Broader Climate Context
The political developments come as a new report indicates the world remains on track for a catastrophic 2.6C temperature rise, far exceeding the Paris Agreement goals. Meanwhile, News Corp Australia chair has rejected claims that the company's outlets form part of a climate crisis "denial machine".
In other news, the restaurant chain Grill'd has humorously apologised for placing what fans call a "burger curse" on Formula 1 driver Oscar Piastri. The McLaren driver has failed to secure a podium finish since the company relaunched a promotion offering free burgers for his top-three performances five races ago.
Internationally, questions emerge about potential US military action against Venezuela after a recent airstrike off the Venezuelan coast. Donald Trump has described targets as "narco-terrorists", with analysts examining who might be pushing for greater US naval involvement in the region.
