The opposition is pushing for a nuclear energy deal with the US as leader Sussan Ley works up a net zero policy compromise to keep her leadership alive and the fragile Coalition intact.

Before a critical fortnight in the energy and climate debate, expectations are growing in the Liberal Party that the opposition leader will secure internal support for the pledge to reach net zero by 2050 – viewed as key for the Coalition to prove to voters that it takes climate change seriously.

Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen is expected to release a long-delayed National Climate Risk Assessment imminently before the government announces its 2035 climate targets.

The Paris Agreement, signed by Australia almost a decade ago by the Abbott government, determined that net zero emissions by 2

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