The opposition leader,Peter Dutton, has insisted he “believes in climate change” a day after refusing to state if the impacts of global heating were worsening.Climate scientists, environmentalists, Labor and the Greens lined up on Thursday to condemn the opposition leader for comments he made during Wednesday night’selection leaders’ debate, which prompted renewed scepticism of the Coalition’s commitment to climate action.Dutton looks shaky as he fights Albanese to a draw at best – and he’s fast running out of chances to get aheadRead moreAsked during the debate if the impacts of climate change – including in his home state of Queensland – were worsening, Dutton said: “I’ll let scientists pass that judgment.“I don’t know because I’m not a scientist and I can’t tell you whether the temperature has risen in [outback Queensland town] Thargomindah because of climate change or the water levels are up.”Sign up for the Afternoon Update: Election 2025 email newsletterThe prime minister, Anthony Albanese, seized on Dutton’s comments during the debate and again at a press conference on Thursday morning, posing the question: “Does he [Dutton] believe in gravity?”“What else is there that is a scientific fact that he needs assurance of, or a science degree, to understand?” Albanese said to reporters at a Brisbane childcare centre.Leading climate and environment groups were alarmed at Dutton’s comments, which the Australian Conservation Foundation said had echoes of the “old climate deniers’ line – ‘I’m not a climate scientist’.”Climate scientist David Karoly, an emeritus professor at the University of Melbourne and councillor at the Climate Council, offered to brief Dutton on the science “at any time he would like to listen”.The 2024state of the climate reportby Australia’s science agency, CSIRO, and the Bureau of Meteorology highlighted that changes to Australia’s weather and climate were happening at an increased pace and the past decade had seen record-breaking extremes and natural disasters, exacerbated by human-caused climate change.Karoly said the report specifically pointed out that increases in short-term rainfall and extreme rainfall were increasing in frequency and magnitude due to human caused climate change.“Mr Dutton just needs to read what government organisations are reporting and listen to the scientists. Scientists have been talking about this for a long time,” he said.Asked on Thursday about his comments the previous night, Dutton said: “I believe in climate change and that’s a reality.“It’s why we’ve adopted our position in relation to net zero by 2050,” he told a press conference in Maitland, in the New South Wales Hunter Valley region.Dutton was not pressed specifically on whether he accepted that climate change was making severe weather events worse.skip past newsletter promotionSign up toAfternoon Update: Election 2025Free daily newsletterOur Australian afternoon update breaks down the key election campaign stories of the day, telling you what’s happening and why it mattersEnter your email addressSign upPrivacy Notice:Newsletters may contain info about charities, online ads, and content funded by outside parties. For more information see ourPrivacy Policy. We use Google reCaptcha to protect our website and the GooglePrivacy PolicyandTerms of Serviceapply.after newsletter promotionCoalition scores just 1/100 points for environment and climate policies from conservation organisationRead moreThe former Coalition government’s perceived inaction on climate change was considered a major factor in its 2022 federal election defeat, helping to inspire theteal independentswho captured six heartland Liberal seats.Guardian Australia approached several Liberals in contests with teals in 2025 for a response to Dutton’s comment.In a statement, Ro Knox’s campaign team in the Sydney seat of Wentworth said she “backs the science on climate change and strong action to get to net zero”.“She supports the mixed portfolio approach of renewables, nuclear and gas to meet targets, stay globally competitive and maintain Australian living standards.”The Coalition’s 2022 loss did not prompt a major rethink in its approach to climate policy, with Dutton’s opposition voting againstLabor’s legislated emissions targetsand thenrefusing to set a 2030 or 2035 goalof its own ahead of the 2025 election.The Coalition is committed to net zero by 2050 and claims nuclear power providesthe only viable path to achieve that goal.However, the government’s Climate Change Authority has found Dutton’s nuclear plans – which would require extending the life of ageing coal-fired power stations – wouldmake it “virtually impossible” to meet the target.Fractures remain within theCoalitionover climate action, with some MPs either sceptical or outright opposed to net zero targets.The Guardian this week unearthed a video in whichCoalition MP Colin Boycedescribed blackouts as a “big political opportunity” to turn people against renewables.In a separate video, Boyce confirmed he was an active member of the Saltbush Club, a group formed to push climate science denial.
Peter Dutton insists he ‘believes in climate change’ after refusing to say if impacts of global heating worsening
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Dutton Affirms Belief in Climate Change Amid Criticism of Previous Comments"
The Guardian
7.7
TruthLens AI Summary
Peter Dutton, the leader of the opposition in Australia, has recently asserted his belief in climate change, despite facing criticism for his previous comments during a leaders' debate where he hesitated to confirm whether the impacts of global warming were worsening. During the debate, Dutton stated that he would leave such judgments to scientists, prompting backlash from climate scientists, environmentalists, and political opponents. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese took the opportunity to challenge Dutton's stance, questioning his understanding of established scientific facts. The Australian Conservation Foundation expressed concern that Dutton's remarks echoed the sentiments of climate change deniers who claim a lack of scientific expertise as a reason for inaction. Notably, climate scientist David Karoly offered to inform Dutton about the scientific consensus on climate change, emphasizing that the impacts are well-documented and increasingly severe, as highlighted in the recent state of the climate report by CSIRO and the Bureau of Meteorology.
In response to the uproar, Dutton clarified his position in a press conference, stating that he believes in climate change and reaffirming the Coalition's commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. However, he was not specifically pressed on whether he acknowledges that climate change is exacerbating severe weather events. The Coalition's approach to climate policy has faced scrutiny, particularly following their defeat in the 2022 federal election, which many attribute to their perceived inaction on climate issues. Despite their commitment to net zero by 2050, there appears to be a lack of consensus within the Coalition, with some members openly skeptical of climate action. The situation remains complex as the party navigates its climate policies ahead of the upcoming 2025 elections, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the rising influence of independent candidates focused on environmental issues.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article outlines the recent comments made by Peter Dutton, the opposition leader in Australia, regarding climate change. His statements have sparked significant backlash from various groups, including scientists and environmentalists, indicating a divide in public perception about climate issues and political accountability.
Public Perception and Political Accountability
Dutton's insistence that he "believes in climate change" juxtaposed with his reluctance to comment on the worsening impacts of global heating suggests a potential attempt to navigate the politically sensitive topic of climate action. His comments, especially in light of a heated debate with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, may reflect a strategy of evasion rather than a firm commitment to climate policies. The backlash from climate advocates and scientists emphasizes a growing frustration with political leaders who appear indecisive on such critical issues.
Media Framing and Scientific Authority
The framing of Dutton's comments by the media highlights a broader narrative regarding political leaders' responsibilities to acknowledge scientific consensus on climate change. Albanese's sarcastic remarks questioning Dutton's understanding of scientific facts underscore a tactic to discredit the opposition leader's stance. This exchange reflects a strategy of using humor and irony to strengthen the government's position on climate action, while simultaneously portraying the opposition as out of touch with scientific realities.
Implications for Climate Policy and Public Discourse
The article indicates a potential shift in public discourse surrounding climate policy, where leaders are increasingly held accountable for their positions. The response from climate scientists offering to educate Dutton suggests a willingness within the scientific community to engage with policymakers, which could foster a more informed dialogue on climate change. However, the skepticism surrounding the Coalition's commitment to climate action may lead to increased pressure for policy changes or could alienate certain voter demographics.
Impact on Political Landscape
This incident could influence the political landscape as the 2025 elections approach. Dutton's perceived ambiguity on climate change may weaken his position among environmentally conscious voters and could empower the Labor Party and Greens. The ongoing debate about climate action may become a central theme in upcoming political campaigns, affecting party strategies and voter alignment.
Potential Economic Effects
While the article primarily focuses on political implications, there could be indirect effects on the economy as well. Investor sentiment regarding climate policies can impact stock prices, particularly for companies in renewable energy versus fossil fuels. The outcome of this public discourse may influence sectors that are sensitive to climate policy changes, such as energy and agriculture.
Support from Specific Communities
Dutton's comments may resonate more with constituents who are skeptical of climate change or prioritize economic growth over environmental concerns. Conversely, they could alienate younger voters and urban populations who are more likely to support aggressive climate actions. In summary, the reliability of this news piece stems from its alignment with ongoing public debates regarding climate change and political accountability. The framing of Dutton's comments suggests a strategic maneuvering within political discourse that aims to balance acknowledgment of climate science with voter appeal.