Media Releases

MEDIA RELEASE: Zali Steggall MP presents climate policy solution for COP26

7 October, 2021

Zali Steggall MP will reintroduce the Climate Change Bills with an important ambitious interim target ahead of COP26. The objects and guiding principles of the Bill now include a target of 60% emissions reduction on 2005 levels by 2030.  

“This legislation is a proven approach that is widely supported by the private sector and delivers a plan for the Morrison Government to present to COP 26 and ensure Australia takes a leading international role in the world’s transition to Net Zero,” Ms Steggall said. 

Following the Environment and Energy Committee inquiry, Ms Steggall will reintroduce the updated Bills to Parliament on 18 October. 

“Climate change is the single biggest threat to Australia’s prosperity and largest opportunity for economic development,” she said. “These bills will ensure Australia gets a share of the estimated $1.7 trillion per annum invested globally in the net zero transition.”

“The Government hasn’t done the work and is letting Australia down, scrambling to negotiate a last minute plan with the Nationals. We must act decisively in this next decade to set Australia up.”

“There is a new wave of opportunity and we need leadership and commitment to be part of it.  We need to set ambitious targets to drive investment and uptake in clean technologies.”

“I call on the Morrison Government to pass the Bills without delay and go to COP26 with a strong responsible position on climate.”

“If not, I commit to taking the Climate Change Bills to the next election. Any minority government seeking my support will need to pass the bills without delay.”

The Bills have been modelled on the UK’s Climate Change Act that sets out clear climate goals and establishes an Independent Climate Commission to provide best independent expert advice and monitor national progression on emissions reduction. For more information go to www.climateactnow.com.au

Clause

Amendment

s 3 & 10

Inclusion of mid-term target in the objects and guiding principles. The specific wording is: ‘a 60% reduction of emissions on 2005 levels by 2030’

 

s 21, s 26, s 31

Positive duties on the Minister to ensure adaptation plan goals, Net Zero by 2050 and emissions budgets are met

 

s 84

Recurring 10-yearly statutory reviews of the operations of the Act

s 19(1) & s 33(1)

Adaptation Plans & Emissions Reduction Plans are now disallowable instruments

s 73

Climate Change Commission can now establish sub-committees to assist with specialised plans for areas like adaptation and fair employment transition

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