Climate change policy in Australia is facing significant challenges as Minister Chris Bowen endorses a stark view on global action while leadership speculation swirls around Liberal Party leader Sussan Ley. Amidst this political turmoil, Qantas is making headlines with plans for ultra-long-range flights from Sydney to major international cities.

Climate Minister's Position on Global Action
Chris Bowen, Australia's Minister for Climate Change and Energy, has aligned himself with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's assessment that the global consensus on climate action has eroded. Speaking at the Cop30 climate summit in Brazil, Bowen stated that achieving net zero emissions by 2050 is merely the "bare minimum" necessary to combat climate change. This perspective highlights a growing divide between Australia's two major political parties regarding their commitments to climate action.

Leadership Speculation in the Liberal Party
As the climate debate intensifies, speculation surrounding Sussan Ley's leadership of the Liberal Party continues to grow. Liberal senator Sarah Henderson publicly claimed that Ley is "losing support" among her colleagues. Despite this, other Liberal MPs, including Angus Taylor, have expressed their support for Ley, insisting her position is safe for now. Taylor dismissed any intentions of challenging Ley's leadership, affirming his commitment to her as the leader of the Coalition heading into the next federal election.

Qantas' Ambitious Flight Plans
In a move that signals confidence in the recovery of international travel, Qantas has unveiled plans for an ultra-long-range Airbus A350-1000ULR. This aircraft is set to operate non-stop flights from Sydney to London and New York beginning in 2027. The airline has released initial images of the aircraft currently being assembled in Toulouse, France, showcasing its advanced design tailored for long-haul travel.

Political Divide on Climate Action
The contrasting views on climate policy between the Labor and Liberal parties have become increasingly apparent. Bowen's push for free solar power schemes for some households stands in stark contrast to the ongoing infighting within the Coalition over emissions targets. This division reflects a broader uncertainty in Australian politics regarding the future of climate action and the implications for leadership stability.

Wrap-up
Australia's political landscape is currently marked by a clash over climate policy and leadership challenges within the Liberal Party. As Chris Bowen advocates for urgent climate action, Sussan Ley faces scrutiny regarding her leadership. Meanwhile, Qantas prepares to launch new international routes, highlighting a potential rebound in global travel.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team