Hanson Slams Liberals as ‘Gutless’ After Net Zero Motion Fails in Senate

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One Nation leader Senator Pauline Hanson unleashed a scathing attack on the Liberal Party, branding most of its senators “gutless” and “cowards” after her motion to scrap Australia’s net zero by 2050 emissions target was overwhelmingly defeated on the Senate floor. The failed vote exposed deep divisions within the Coalition and highlighted Hanson’s bid to capitalize on conservative discontent.

On Monday, Hanson introduced an urgency motion in the Senate, arguing that net zero policies cripple Australian industries and drive up living costs. “I spoke to a small business owner paying $10,000 a month for electricity,” she told 2GB’s Ben Fordham, adding, “Net zero is a scam destroying our manufacturing and farming.” Only seven of 76 senators backed her, including One Nation’s four and right-wing Liberals Matt Canavan and Alex Antic. Most Liberal senators, under Opposition Leader Sussan Ley’s direction, abstained, prompting Hanson’s fiery rebuke: “Anyone who abstains is a coward.” Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young called the Coalition’s absence “weak,” noting the climate target’s significance.

The vote underscored tensions within the Coalition, with Nationals MPs Barnaby Joyce and Michael McCormack openly opposing net zero, signaling a broader conservative revolt. Joyce is reportedly drafting a private member’s bill to abandon the policy, a move Hanson praised, saying One Nation “knew all along net zero was a bad idea.” Liberal moderates like Jane Hume, who voted against Hanson, argued, “Voters expect credible climate action,” citing electoral losses in 2022. The United Nations’ climate diplomat warned that abandoning net zero could cost Australians $7,000 per person annually by 2050.

Hanson, likening herself to UK populist Nigel Farage, sees an opportunity to woo disaffected Coalition voters as Ley shifts the Liberals toward the center. With One Nation’s Senate numbers bolstered to four after the May 2025 election, her influence is growing. However, critics like Liberal Senator Andrew Bragg argue her divisive tactics harm social cohesion. As Australia grapples with soaring energy costs and climate commitments, Hanson’s provocative stance ensures she remains a lightning rod in the nation’s political divide.