CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA - JULY 22: Leader of the Opposition Sussan Ley MP (R) leaves the church after the Eucumenical service at Wesley Church on July 22, 2025 in Canberra, Australia. Parliament reopened on Tuesday following Labor's decisive election win. With a strong majority, Labor is set to push its agenda, signalling a clear shift in the political landscape. This session will reflect the party's priorities and a new direction for the government, as the opposition and cross-bench tries to make its presence felt. (Photo by Hilary Wardhaugh/Getty Images)
UPDATE: In a tense interview on Sky News Australia, Opposition Leader Sussan Ley struggled to clarify her party’s stance on the contentious Net Zero emissions policy. The discussion, which took place earlier today, underscored the internal divisions within the Coalition as pressure mounts for a definitive energy strategy.
Ley was confronted directly by the journalist, who asked, “You’re going to dump Net Zero, down the track, aren’t you?” Her response failed to provide clarity, stating, “Individuals in my party room and in the Nationals’ party room have passionate, well-held views on this.” She announced the formation of a working group led by Dan Tehan to explore various perspectives on the issue, but her comments left many questioning her leadership and convictions.
The urgency surrounding energy policy has intensified, especially as the government faces criticism for its handling of energy prices and emissions. Ley emphasized, “Of course, the important thing is, we’re not actually holding the levers on this policy. The government owns current energy policy.” This admission raises concerns about her party’s ability to influence future energy strategies.
Earlier today, Ley reiterated her commitment to a consultative approach, declaring, “I want to look at this from the perspective of Australians and Australian energy policy.” However, her vague statements about the role of renewables and gas in the energy mix have stirred frustration, especially as the Labor Party pushes for ambitious emissions targets.
As Ley deflected questions about her own views on emissions reduction, she stated, “Everything is on the table,” suggesting a lack of decisiveness that has unsettled many within her party. Critics argue that her reluctance to take a firm stance on Net Zero reflects a deeper conflict within the National Party and the broader Coalition.
The interview highlighted a significant disconnect, as Ley struggled to articulate how her party plans to address the energy crisis affecting Australian households and businesses. “The government is failing on both [energy reliability and emissions reduction],” she asserted, but critics point out that the Coalition’s current strategy remains unclear.
In a revealing moment, Ley was asked whether she would propose her own emissions target for 2050. She responded, “I am the leader, and I will make the call when the time comes,” prompting skepticism about her leadership and vision for the future.
The internal conflict within the Coalition is palpable, with many urging Ley to take a stronger stand against the Labor government’s energy policies. As the political landscape shifts, the implications of Ley’s indecision on Net Zero could have lasting effects on the party’s electoral prospects.
Looking ahead, the Coalition must address the growing concerns over energy policy, especially as the next election approaches in less than three years. The pressure is mounting for Ley to establish a clear and effective strategy that resonates with Australian voters.
As this story develops, the political stakes are high, and Australian citizens are eager for transparency and accountability from their leaders. Expect further updates as the Coalition navigates its energy policy challenges and works to unify its position on Net Zero.
