Australia is the world’s biggest coal exporter, accounting for over a third of coal exports worldwide. In 2018, coal overtook iron ore as our most valuable export. Scott Morrison’s government has embraced coal, doubling down on supporting the industry, calling climate-based boycotts of coal companies “indulgent and selfish” and vowing to stop protestors.
 
But what does our increased reliance on coal mean for the nation? For the economy and the environment? And where will it leave us when the world stops buying it?
 
In this nuanced and insightful essay, Judith Brett looks at the consequences of Australia’s coal addiction, from stalled climate-change policy to tensions between farmers and miners. She assesses where to next for a fractious Coalition and the Quiet Australians. 

Where is Scott Morrison taking the country? How does his office and government operate? What does Morrison’s approach owe to John Howard – and what to Donald Trump? After seven years of Coalition government, and two years of Morrison as prime minister, Katharine Murphy takes stock.
 
This is an urgent, grounded essay about Scott Morrison and conservatism today by one of Australia’s leading commentators and analysts.