The Australian opposition finds itself embroiled in controversy after leaked documents revealed Coalition MPs are being directed to argue that abandoning the net zero emissions target aligns with the country's Paris Agreement commitments.
Internal Guidance Exposes Climate Policy Rift
Guardian Australia has obtained talking points circulated among Coalition MPs following Sunday's finalisation of Sussan Ley's new energy and emissions plan. The guidance prepares politicians to face difficult questions about their decision to ditch the net zero target while remaining in the Paris climate accord.
The shadow minister for energy and emissions reduction, Dan Tehan, confirmed he stands by the assertion that abandoning net zero remains consistent with Australia's Paris obligations. When questioned by Guardian Australia, a spokesperson responded: "As detailed in the talking points, the answer is yes."
Paris Agreement Requirements Create Contradiction
The leaked documents indicate the Coalition recognises the potential conflict in their position. While the Paris Agreement doesn't mandate specific net zero targets, it requires signatories to progressively increase their emissions reduction ambitions with each new five-year commitment.
A future Coalition government would breach Australia's obligations if it proceeds with plans to drop the net zero by 2050 target and rescind the Albanese government's 2030 and 2035 goals. The talking points acknowledge this vulnerability by including prepared responses to anticipated questions about downgrading climate commitments.
When facing questions about apparent contradictions, MPs are advised to respond: "There is no contradiction at all. The Paris Agreement is built on national choice. Australia will remain in Paris. We will continue to reduce emissions."
Coalition Divisions and Policy Confusion
The policy has exposed deep divisions within the Coalition, with moderate MPs including Dave Sharma, Tim Wilson, Andrew Bragg and Julian Leeser conspicuously avoiding promotion of the plan on their social media channels. These moderates lost the internal battle to retain the net zero emissions target.
Further controversy emerged regarding potential taxpayer support for coal-fired power stations through a "technology neutral" capacity investment scheme. Nationals senator Matt Canavan has used the policy to renew calls for new coal plants, while Sussan Ley confirmed coal projects could receive subsidies "if it stacks up."
The talking points address this concern by stating: "If a private investor wants to put forward a project of any kind, they would have to demonstrate that it delivers affordable power, that it stacks up commercially, and that it fits within the rules of the scheme. There is no blank cheque."
Internal frustration is growing among Coalition MPs tasked with defending the policy. One MP confessed: "It could be argued that the policy brings all sides of the Coalition together. No one is sounding convincing on any issue regarding anything."
Meanwhile, industry groups and energy experts have challenged the Coalition's central claim that abandoning net zero while pursuing "energy abundance" through coal and nuclear power would lower electricity prices for households and businesses.
