The Albanese government has announced a 2035 emissions reduction target of 62-70% compared with 2005 levels, a commitment that follows a national climate risk assessment warning of a disastrous future for Australia on a warming planet.
In a podcast with the Australian Politics podcast, climate and environment editor Adam Morton spoke to Matt Kean, chair of the Climate Change Authority, about the advice that informed the long-awaited target. Kean discussed how Australia’s new goal compares with those of other countries and what it means for the nation’s economic future.
The target has been described in coverage as “Oprah-style”, aiming to please almost everyone, but it risks falling short on meaningful climate action. The national climate risk assessment also highlighted the vulnerability of Australian cities to extreme heat, with interactive maps showing the extent of the threat.
Kean’s remarks come as the government faces growing pressure to balance emissions cuts with economic priorities, with the Climate Change Authority’s recommendations central to shaping the final target.
