Politics & Council
11 November, 2025
Nats walk away from net zero commitment
AUSTRALIANS would be put first with cheaper electricity, secure jobs and lower emissions by the Nationals “all-energy approach”.
That’s the pledge of Mallee MP Anne Webster after the Nationals ditched support at the weekend for a net zero emissions policy.
Dr Anne Webster MP said Australia could not afford the Federal Government’s net zero all- renewables plan
“Labor’s Net Zero plan is costing Australians dearly — higher power bills, lost jobs, and damage to our farmland and environment. Under Labor, electricity prices are up 39 per cent, gas 46 per cent, and real wages have fallen back to 2011 levels. Families and businesses are hurting and 7,000 manufacturing jobs have been lost,” Dr Webster said.
“Here in Mallee and beyond, our environment is suffering with forests and farmland being destroyed. We are bringing common sense back to solving climate change.
“The Nationals’ plan puts Australians first, with cheaper electricity and secure jobs, while still lowering emissions.
“The Nationals will abandon a net zero commitment. We will do our fair share to reduce global emissions, but not more than the rest of the world. This is a fair approach.” Dr Webster said.
“If we continue down Labor’s reckless path, Australians will only feel more pain, with the estimated cost of net zero at $7 to $9 trillion, or $250,000 per Australian.”
The Nationals have adopted a Cheaper, Better, Fairer energy and climate plan.
Six principles underpin The Nationals new pathway:
Lower energy prices first - we should lower energy prices first and abandon Labor’s net zero plan.
Doing our fair share - we should reduce emissions in line with comparable nations, not ahead of them.
A fair go for all - costs should be distributed evenly, not concentrated on regions. All carbon taxes and restrictions should be removed.
Empowering local action - let local communities lead initiatives such as waterway protection, land restoration and soil carbon.
Supporting all technologies - a commonsense approach to renewables, embrace new technologies, including nuclear and advanced coal and gas.
Protecting our security and prosperity - we should not compromise our quality of living, regional jobs and industries and national defence.