Nationals leader Matt Canavan has expressed support for Australia's continued participation in the Paris Agreement but has strongly opposed the proposed free trade deal with the European Union. He argues that the deal would legally bind Australia to stricter net-zero commitments, going beyond the country's current obligations under the Paris Agreement. Canavan stated that while reducing emissions over time is reasonable, Australia cannot afford a 'mad pursuit of net zero' that could harm the economy.
The provisional text of the EU trade deal includes clauses that would obligate Australia to refrain from actions that undermine the Paris Agreement's objectives and promote measures for a net-zero, low greenhouse gas emission economy. Canavan criticized the government for using the trade deal as a 'backdoor way' to bind Australia to net zero, asserting that the Paris Agreement's broader goals extend beyond current commitments.
Canavan has also raised concerns about the impact of the trade deal on Australian farmers, particularly in the dairy industry, citing unfair competition due to European subsidies. He has texted Trade Minister Don Farrell to discuss the details but has made it clear that his party will not support the agreement in its current form. The Minerals Council has highlighted potential benefits for critical minerals companies, but Canavan noted that local businesses view the carbon tax as a bigger issue than European tariffs.
In a separate development, Canavan expressed support for a nuclear-powered data center in his electorate, stating he would welcome nuclear power over wind turbines. Meanwhile, Prime Minister is set to attend the UN climate summit COP31 in Türkiye this week.