The Australian Government has introduced the Climate Change Bill 2022. The Bill legislates the nation’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 43% below 2005 levels by 2030, and net zero by 2050.
The legislation strengthens accountability through an annual statement by the Minister for Climate Change to Parliament, and tasks the independent Climate Change Authority to provide advice on Australia’s progress towards these targets, and on what Australia’s future targets should be.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said, ‘Current issues confronting Australian and global energy markets highlights why this long-term commitment is so important.
‘This Bill confirms our commitment to ambitious but realistic targets supported by Australia’s states and territories, business, industry, unions, environmental and community groups. It provides a platform for collaboration to drive down emissions while ensuring reliable energy supplies,’ the Minister said.
‘The Bill makes it clear that 43% is our minimum commitment and does not prevent our collective efforts delivering even stronger reductions over the coming decade.’
