Former Opposition leader Peter Dutton has called for unity within the Coalition, urging members to rally behind new Liberal leader Sussan Ley, after May’s landslide election defeat left the conservative side of politics in turmoil.
Speaking at the LNP state convention in Brisbane, his first public appearance since stepping down as leader. Dutton received a standing ovation from party faithful, describing it as “humbling” after more than two decades in politics.
“I think Sussan’s doing a great job, and [Nationals leader] David Littleproud,” Dutton said. “It’s important we stand united and present a clear vision for families, small business, and the future.”
His comments come as Ley promised a “complete economic plan” to take to the next election, pledging productivity, cost-of-living relief, and a stronger national security stance. She also launched fresh criticism of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s decision to recognise a Palestinian state, saying it “rewards terror” and undermines peace efforts.
The convention itself opened with a heated debate over climate policy, culminating in an overwhelming vote for the federal Coalition to abandon its current net zero commitment. Of 28 speakers, 27 backed a motion calling for a “flexible” energy policy, one that supports mining, agriculture and manufacturing, lifts the ban on nuclear energy, and embraces high-efficiency, low-emissions technology.
Queensland Senator Matt Canavan led the charge, arguing that soaring energy prices proved the need for change. “We need to return to the days when we ran our energy system with the priority of the lowest possible costs for Australians,” he said.
While most speakers described net zero as a “slogan” or even “self-sabotage,” one member warned the move risked alienating voters who had endorsed emissions targets at the last election.
Departing LNP president Lawrence Springborg, praised as the “father of the LNP” for merging Queensland’s conservative parties, also received a standing ovation as he handed over to incoming president Doug Hawkes.
The convention’s resolutions are not binding on the party’s parliamentary wing, but the debate highlighted the deep divisions the Coalition must confront as it seeks to rebuild after one of its worst election defeats in history.