Liberal Party Abandons Net Zero 2050 Target in Major Climate Policy Shift

The Australian Liberal Party has officially dropped its commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. The decision was finalized on November 13, 2025, after intense internal party negotiations. This marks a dramatic reversal from the party’s previous stance.

Opposition Leader Sussan Ley announced the new policy direction. She stated the party would now focus on emissions reduction targets set in five-year increments. The shift aims to prioritize energy affordability and technological feasibility over long-term mandates.

Internal Divisions Forced a Compromise

The party was deeply divided on the issue. Moderate Liberals fought to keep the net zero pledge. They argued it was essential for international credibility and economic investment.

Conservative members strongly opposed the binding target. Their position ultimately prevailed, leading to the policy’s abandonment. According to ABC News, the outcome was a hard-fought compromise between the party’s factions.

The decision aligns the Liberals more closely with their Coalition partners, the Nationals. The Nationals had already withdrawn their support for the net zero target earlier in the month.

What the New Climate Policy Entails

The revised policy keeps Australia in the Paris Agreement. However, it rejects fixed long-term emissions targets. The focus shifts to year-on-year reductions based on what is technologically achievable.

Shadow ministers emphasized an “all technologies” approach. This includes coal, gas, and potential nuclear energy. The goal is to reduce emissions without imposing costs on households or industry.

The party promises to repeal the current government’s 2030 emissions legislation. Future targets will only be set once the party is in government. This provides flexibility but creates uncertainty for investors.

Political and Economic Fallout

The policy shift has drawn sharp criticism. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese accused the Coalition of abandoning climate action. He warned it would jeopardize jobs and economic growth.

Business groups have expressed concern over the lack of long-term investment certainty. The Climate Council warned that dropping net zero could lead to higher power bills and more extreme weather events.

Internationally, the move may strain Australia’s relationships. Pacific island nations, in particular, view climate action as a critical issue. The decision signals a significant change in Australia’s environmental stance.

The Liberal Party’s abandonment of its net zero target reshapes Australia’s political and environmental landscape. This decisive move prioritizes immediate economic concerns over long-term climate goals, setting the stage for a fierce national debate on energy and emissions.

Thought you’d like to know

What does ‘net zero by 2050’ actually mean?

Net zero means balancing greenhouse gas emissions with removals from the atmosphere. The 2050 target was a global goal to limit warming. Australia had previously committed to this timeline.

Why did the Liberal Party change its policy?

Internal pressure from conservative members forced the change. The party sought a policy that aligned with the Nationals. They also wanted to emphasize energy affordability over mandates.

Is Australia still in the Paris Agreement?

Yes, the Liberal Party has confirmed it will remain in the Paris Agreement. However, its approach to meeting the agreement’s goals has fundamentally changed without the 2050 target.

How will this affect energy prices?

The party argues its new approach will lower energy prices by supporting all technologies, including coal and gas. Critics warn that policy uncertainty could deter renewable investment and potentially increase costs long-term.

What are the alternatives to a net zero target?

The new policy focuses on five-yearly targets and technology-led reduction. It avoids a fixed end date, allowing adjustments based on economic conditions and technological progress.