Australians say defence, energy security more important than net-zero climate target: poll

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Australians are increasingly worried that the government’s focus on net zero is “a threat to our national defence” and energy security, according to new polling released Thursday by the Institute of Public Affairs.

According to the poll, Australians across all age groups said that Canberra should be more focused on national defence than meeting net zero targets, with those in the 35-44 age group most likely to agree with the statement.

A new poll shows Australians are increasingly worried on the federal government’s net zero target. Picture: Vestas Wind Systems

By a margin of 61 to 39 per cent, respondents agreed that “the federal government should be more focused on national defence than meeting Australia’s net zero target.”

The survey, which asked 1,007 Australians their thoughts on a range of issues around energy, the environment and national defence, also found that 72 per cent of voters thought that when it came to power, “affordability” and “reliability” should trump attempts to meet net zero targets.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Picture: Paul Kane/Getty Images

It also found that with cost of living pressures biting most Australians were not keen to spend more to help the country achieve net zero emissions.

Nearly half – 42 per cent – of respondents said that they would be “personally willing” to pay nothing to reach net zero by 2050.

A further 30 per cent said they would be willing to hand over $50 a year to meet the target.

Only three per cent said it would be worth paying more than $500 per year.

“Australia’s commitment to net zero emissions is no longer just an economic concern, mainstream Australians understand it is also a threat to our national defence,” said IPA Director of Research Daniel Wild.

“Just last week UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson asked for a ‘climate change pass’ so he can secure the United Kingdom’s energy supply after relying on Russia for too long, it is clear Australians want our Prime Minister to show the same leadership,” said Mr Wild.

“The Morrison Government must accept that energy security is national security and abandon its commitment to net zero.”

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that his government had managed to bring down power prices while also reducing emissions.

“Our plan for net zero by 2050 is based on technology, not taxes. It’s based on choices, not mandates. And this is the path we believe which will see us achieve success,” he told an audience in Western Australia.