Nationals' Revolt Over Net Zero Threatens to Shatter Coalition Unity

A major rift has erupted within Australia's Coalition as senior Nationals, led by Barnaby Joyce and Michael McCormack, push to abandon the country's net zero emissions target.

The move has sparked fierce infighting, with moderate Liberals and Nationals leader David Littleproud warning that ditching net zero could damage Australia's international standing and economic prospects. Critics accuse Joyce and his allies of being out of touch and risking the Coalition's future, while supporters claim net zero is unachievable and harmful to regional communities. The escalating dispute threatens to fracture the decades-old alliance between the Liberals and Nationals, overshadowing new opposition leader Sussan Ley's debut and dominating the first week of parliament.

The outcome of this internal battle could reshape Australia's climate policy and the political landscape.