The Climate Change Act has passed – now what?

From Bondi to the Pilbara, Australians understand the importance of taking climate action this decade. The impacts of accelerating climate change are harming us in all kinds of ways as extreme weather events – like floods and bushfires – increase in frequency and/or severity.

That’s why so many Australians – in regions and cities, and of all political persuasions – voted for stronger climate action at the last federal election. They expect their elected representatives to act.

We congratulate the Australian Parliament on legislating the first-ever national emissions target: a minimum of 43% by 2030 (based on 2005 levels). In particular, we acknowledge each of the 126 Members and Senators – ALP, Greens and Independents – who voted in favour of the Climate Change Act.

This new law sends an important signal to the world that Australia is acting on climate change. In particular, it will help encourage the massive private investment we will need in order to transform our entire economy to net zero.

On its own this law won’t deliver the rapid emissions reductions we need this decade. It needs to be backed by credible climate solutions that will alter every sector of our economy – electricity, transport, industry, finance, and more. This requires every person to be putting their shoulder to the wheel; and in particular, it requires courage and conviction from our parliamentarians.

The Climate Change Act should become a springboard for more action.

Next week, the Climate Council will release 10 game-changing climate solutions that will build on the Albanese Government’s 2022 election commitments and help us grasp the job and investment opportunities that a decarbonising world presents Australia.

There’s so much at stake, and little time left to do what’s necessary.