Opposition Accuses Bowen of Being ‘Part-Time Minister, Full-Time President’

Opposition MPs accused the government of neglecting soaring power bills as Chris Bowen faced criticism for prioritising next year’s COP presidency.

Leader of the Opposition Sussan Ley during Question Time in the House of Representatives at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia on July 30, 2025. AAP Image/Mick Tsikas

The Albanese government came under fire in Question Time on Nov. 24, with the opposition repeatedly accusing Energy Minister Chris Bowen of neglecting soaring electricity bills as he prepares to lead global climate negotiations at COP next year.

Bowen, who will co-preside over COP under an agreement with Turkey, was not in the chamber as the opposition framed him as a “part-time minister, full-time president” while households brace for higher power costs.