Activists fund pro-nuclear ads; Liberals remain silent

Activists are spending a lot of money on ads promoting nuclear energy, while the Liberal Party remains quiet about their own nuclear policies. Recent data shows the Liberals last advertised their nuclear agenda in November, and they are not using the term “nuclear” in their current social media ads. Energy and Climate Minister Chris Bowen pointed out that the Coalition is avoiding discussions about nuclear energy as protests disrupt their media events. During these events, activists from the group Rising Tide interrupted speeches by Opposition Leader Peter Dutton and shadow treasurer Angus Taylor, raising safety concerns for MPs. Meanwhile, Coalition MPs are asking for more immediate plans to lower energy bills and are pushing for policies that focus on gas. LNP Senator Matt Canavan has suggested that the opposition should consider coal as a less expensive energy source. The Coalition claims it can deliver a cheaper energy grid by 2050 but lacks concrete plans for reducing costs in the short term. Dutton has mentioned nuclear energy only a few times this year on social media. Critically, Energy spokesman Ted O’Brien has made few remarks about nuclear and failed to address it in a statement after recent power price increases. Both leaders are trying to promote a balanced energy strategy, but Labor disputes the Coalition's cost estimates. Bowen criticized Dutton's nuclear plans, calling them ineffective. O’Brien responded by accusing Bowen of avoiding debates crucial to energy policy, especially in key regional areas. This conflict over energy is important as it directly affects voters’ cost-of-living concerns. A recent survey reveals that energy costs are the main concern for voters. Despite the Coalition's weak promotion of nuclear options, activist groups are heavily advertising the benefits of nuclear energy. Businessman Dick Smith is at the forefront, funding nuclear advertising efforts significantly. New groups, including one called Liberals Against Nuclear, are advocating for the Liberal Party to abandon its nuclear stance, suggesting it could harm their electoral prospects. The group is reportedly backed by significant funding, though specific details about membership numbers and donors remain unclear.