Barnaby Joyce and other prominent Coalition opponents of net zero by 2050 are urging Australia to build new coal-fired power stations, prioritise gas and nuclear energy, and abandon emissions reduction efforts. The former Nationals leader has introduced a private member's bill to block net zero, reigniting divisions within the Liberal and National parties.
Joyce argued that renewable energy would not meaningfully affect the climate and would impose excessive costs on households. He claimed nuclear power could achieve net zero more affordably than intermittent renewables. Senator Matt Canavan, who is leading the Nationals' review of net zero policies, said Australia should follow China, the US, India and Indonesia by building new coal plants. He stated that Australian emissions cuts would not alter global temperatures, but new coal stations could lower energy costs and protect manufacturing jobs.
However, the CSIRO's 2024-25 GenCost report found that renewables backed by gas and transmission remain the cheapest new electricity generation technology. Independent authorities warn that failing to curb emissions will lead to extreme weather, health problems, and ecosystem destruction. Nationals leader David Littleproud said the party would finalise its position within two months.
Joyce has allied with former Nationals leader Michael McCormack, who argued emissions should not be reduced at the expense of manufacturing, farming, or food supply. The shadow energy minister Dan Tehan confirmed the Liberal party's review would take nine to 12 months, with a focus on gas and carbon capture and storage. Former prime minister Tony Abbott has also voiced support for anti-net zero moves.
