UPDATE: Tensions erupt within the Liberal Party as party members grapple with the controversial 2050 net zero emissions target. Insiders reveal that the internal struggle could lead to significant political fallout ahead of crucial elections.
In a heated discussion during a party room meeting on November 10, 2025, Sussan Ley, the party leader, faces pressure as dissent grows over the commitment to climate action. Many members argue that rejecting the target could cost them dearly at the polls, particularly among younger voters who prioritize climate change.
Polling data shows that climate action is a top concern for 80% of Millennials and Gen Z, with these demographics citing it as a decisive factor in their voting behavior just six months ago. As the party struggles to maintain its relevance, a Liberal MP stated that if the party abandons the net zero goal, Tim Wilson “can kiss his seat goodbye,” highlighting the potential loss of key electorates to the rising teal independents.
The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated. Andrew Hirst, the Federal Director, is expected to present research during the meeting that outlines the dire consequences of abandoning climate commitments. The Business Council of Australia has also voiced its support for the 2050 net zero target, emphasizing that 90% of Australia’s trade relies on partnerships with nations committed to similar goals.
The political landscape is shifting rapidly. If the Liberal Party chooses to follow the Nationals in rejecting the target, they risk becoming fringe players in the larger political arena, akin to the fate of the UK’s Conservative Party, which has faced backlash for similar decisions. A Liberal MP remarked, “If the Liberals don’t take the threat seriously, they will lock themselves out of power indefinitely.”
The stakes are high. A failure to support the net zero target could lead to a consolidating “teal wall” in urban areas, effectively erasing long-held Liberal strongholds. This scenario could also accelerate the party’s decline, making it increasingly out of touch with the electorate’s priorities.
As the party continues to debate its future direction, the message is clear: the goal isn’t just about signing on to a target; it’s about how to achieve it responsibly. The focus must shift to developing a viable method for reaching net zero emissions, which includes addressing energy policies and investment strategies.
With the 2025 election looming, the Liberal Party must navigate this treacherous terrain with caution. A decision to abandon the net zero target will not be seen as bold; it will be viewed as a failure to engage with the pressing concerns of voters. As insiders warn of the potential consequences, the leadership’s response could very well define the party’s future.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds.
