Canberra is gearing up for a politically charged final week of Parliament in 2025, marked by two significant power struggles that could reshape the Australian political landscape. The first issue focuses on the escalating costs of electricity bills that continue to impact households, while the second revolves around the future leadership within the Coalition.
During Monday’s Question Time, the Opposition pressed the Albanese government on its commitment to reduce power bills by $275, targeting the absence of Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley criticized the Minister’s dual role as COP President, questioning his influence on energy prices while he attended COP30 in Brazil. Ley asked, “Why is it that this part-time minister, full-time president, isn’t using this unprecedented influence to lower energy bills for Australians?”
In response, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the government’s actions, asserting that the Coalition often undermines Australia’s contributions to international climate efforts. He noted, “Over recent days, there are communiques issued by every single country supporting the Paris agreement, supporting a reduction in emissions.” Labor is keen to highlight divisions within the Coalition, particularly after it abandoned its net-zero emissions target for 2050.
The government also defended its energy policies. Treasurer Jim Chalmers stated that Bowen’s responsibilities as Climate Minister and COP President are not conflicting. He criticized the Coalition’s approach, saying, “If they really cared about lower electricity prices for Australians, they wouldn’t have come up with this economic insanity.” Chalmers attributed rising power bills to the aging electricity grid, stressing the need for a transition to renewable energy sources.
As tensions mounted, the Coalition faced its own leadership challenges. In a noteworthy absence, West Australian backbencher Andrew Hastie missed Question Time due to recovery from shoulder surgery. His absence adds to speculation regarding Ley’s position as Opposition Leader, especially as he is viewed by some as a potential successor.
The Coalition’s primary vote has dropped to a historic low of 24 percent, leading to uncertainty about its leadership direction. On Tuesday, the Liberal party room is expected to convene, amid discussions about the future of the party as it grapples with internal divisions. Defence Minister Richard Marles pointedly remarked on the infighting, saying, “What fundamentally characterises the Coalition is that they are deeply divided.”
In the backdrop of these tensions, former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull is set to return to Parliament for the unveiling of his official portrait on Thursday. Ley is anticipated to attend, which may provide a moment of reflection on her leadership amidst ongoing speculation regarding her future.
Before Parliament concludes for the year, the government aims to secure approval for significant environmental law reforms, a move that may face resistance from the Coalition, which is reluctant to grant a legislative victory to the government before the holiday recess. Discussions with the Greens may emerge as a viable path to achieve this goal.
As the year draws to a close, the political atmosphere in Canberra remains tense, with no clear indication of the parliamentary calendar for 2026. Meanwhile, Albanese has hinted at a personal milestone, revealing that his much-anticipated wedding to partner Jodie Haydon will take place “over summer.” The exact date and venue remain undisclosed, allowing him a brief respite from the political fray as the year wraps up.
