Media Releases

Thursday 20 November 2025 

MEDIA STATEMENT:COP31 Bid Withdrawal is a Missed Chance

I’m disappointed by reports that Australia has dropped its bid to jointly host COP31 with Pacific nations.

Hosting the event in the Southern Hemisphere would have highlighted the existential risk climate change poses to Pacific nations.

It would also have shone a spotlight on the federal government’s climate policy, putting pressure on them to do more and be better. Australians, especially younger generations, want the government to show real climate leadership on the global stage after decades of delay and lack of ambition.

I note speculation that some associated COP events may be held in our region as part of COP31. While that would be welcome, that is not the same as a sustained focus over the length of a COP on the plight of Pacific nations and the very real impacts of climate change they are grappling with.

Regardless of whether Australia co-hosts COP31, we must continue to accelerate the transition to a clean and safe future. That includes phasing out coal and gas, stopping the approval of new fossil fuel projects, and investing in climate adaptation to ensure communities can cope with the challenges ahead.

Australia must also signal to investors that we are ready to embrace the clean economy of the future. The Coalition’s recent backflip on net-zero wants sends the wrong message to investors and shows it has no credibility on climate and energy policy.

Media inquiries: Nicole Hasham, 0407 790 892