The Australian government is set to announce its 2035 emissions reduction target on Thursday, alongside a suite of reports including the Climate Change Authority's advice and a plan to reach net zero by 2050. The target, initially due in February, was delayed until after the May election pending advice from the authority chaired by former NSW Liberal treasurer Matt Kean.
The 2035 goal will build on the existing 2030 target of a 43% cut below 2005 levels. Projections released in November suggest Australia is on track for a 42.6% reduction, just shy of that target. The new target will be submitted to the UN as part of Australia's nationally determined contribution under the Paris agreement, with climate minister Chris Bowen indicating a range rather than a single number is likely.
The Climate Change Authority's consultation paper in April 2024 found a cut of at least 65% and up to 75% would be ambitious and achievable with additional action. The authority's board, including scientists and business figures, reached its final position last week, and Bowen received the advice on Friday. The authority considered scientific advice on limiting global heating to 1.5C, international diplomacy, economic feasibility, technological development, and social acceptability.
Scientific analyses suggest Australia should aim for a cut in the high 70s to 100% by 2035. Pacific island neighbours have urged maximum ambition and an end to new fossil fuel projects. Climate campaigners generally view a target including 75% as credible, while some experts argue even 65% would be ambitious given the need to halve pollution in a decade. Business groups are divided, with some like Fortescue and Atlassian pushing for 75%, and others emphasising costs. The Business Council of Australia has warned about setting a target in the 60s or 70s.
