Coalition in Crisis: Nationals' Revolt Over Net Zero Threatens to Shatter Conservative Unity

Australia's Coalition is facing a major internal crisis as senior Nationals, led by Barnaby Joyce and Michael McCormack, push to abandon the country's net zero by 2050 climate target.

This rebellion has exposed deep divisions between the Nationals and the Liberal Party, with moderate Liberals urging the Coalition to maintain its climate commitments. The infighting has overshadowed new Liberal leader Sussan Ley's debut and threatens to fracture the decades-old alliance between the two parties. Critics warn that ditching net zero could harm Australia's international reputation and economic prospects, while supporters argue the policy is unachievable and damaging to regional communities.

The ongoing turmoil leaves the Coalition struggling to present a united front on climate policy as parliament resumes.