Former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce has expressed strong criticism towards Peter Dutton, suggesting that Dutton has “lost his mind” over his stance on nuclear energy. Joyce’s remarks come after a refusal during an ABC interview to affirm that nuclear power could contribute to lowering energy costs ahead of the last election.
In the media briefing in Canberra, Joyce recounted his exchanges with Dutton, highlighting a past threat from Dutton to dismiss him if he did not support net zero emissions. Joyce claimed he told Dutton, “Well sack me,” to which Dutton responded, acknowledging Joyce as too significant a problem to remove.
Joyce underscored the troubling rise in energy costs, particularly in regional areas, stating that power prices have become unmanageable. He emphasised that the current state of the energy grid is becoming increasingly unreliable and is driving Australians toward severe financial hardship that is unjustifiable.
In recent developments, Joyce and fellow Nationals MP Michael McCormack revealed they had been dropped from the shadow ministry following an election reshuffle. Despite previous rivalries, they are now united in advocating for Joyce’s private member’s bill to repeal the net zero emissions commitment. McCormack joined Joyce’s critique of the Coalition’s 2050 net zero target, labelling it a “lunatic crusade.”
Joyce pointed out the irony of Australia striving for net zero targets while major polluting nations like Russia, China, and the United States do not participate in similar commitments. He cautioned that the push for these policies places Australia in the minority and described the pursuit of net zero as unrealistic.
Additionally, Nationals leader David Littleproud weighed in on the net zero debate, asserting that the goal is unattainable and claiming it is detrimental to regional communities. He highlighted that the net zero target has transformed into an aspiration that prioritises the impossible over pragmatic solutions, placing an unfair burden on many.
In light of disappointing election results, the Coalition and Nationals are currently reassessing their climate and energy strategies. Joyce lamented the repercussions of their previous support for net zero, acknowledging that it led to significant electoral losses in recent elections.