Andrew Hastie Resigns from Liberal Frontbench in Dispute Over Immigration and Net Zero
CANBERRA – Liberal MP Andrew Hastie has resigned from teh Coalition frontbench, escalating a simmering internal dispute over immigration levels and the party’s commitment to net zero emissions targets. The move comes as the Liberal party navigates a potential leadership shift and grapples with defining its policy platform ahead of the next election.
Hastie’s departure underscores growing tensions within the Coalition regarding population growth and climate policy. He has been a vocal critic of current immigration levels, arguing they are exacerbating the housing crisis and contributing to a sense of alienation among some Australians. Simultaneously, he has publicly challenged the 2050 net zero target, deeming it an economic “straitjacket.” His resignation signals a deepening rift between conservative elements within the party and those advocating for more moderate positions.
The dispute over immigration policy recently surfaced following comments from fellow Liberal MP Sussan ley, who subtly distanced herself from Hastie’s claim that immigration was making Australians feel like “strangers in our own home.” Ley instead attributed housing pressures to the goverment’s failure to invest in sufficient infrastructure.
Hastie has actively used social media to advocate for curbing net overseas migration, warning the Liberal party faces potential decline if it doesn’t address the issue.He has also been a prominent voice questioning the feasibility of the net zero target.
Following Hastie’s resignation, Sussan Ley announced Liberal senator James Paterson would serve as acting shadow minister for home affairs. Further changes to the frontbench are expected to be announced shortly, as the party assesses its leadership and policy direction. The timing of Hastie’s departure adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing discussions about the future of the Liberal party and its position within the Australian political landscape.
