Australia plans 62–70% emissions cut by 2035

September 18, 2025

Australia has unveiled a new climate pledge to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 62–70% within the next decade, marking one of the steepest transitions in the nation’s history. While the commitment falls short of expert recommendations, it represents a significant shift for one of the world’s highest per-capita emitters.

Australia’s climate commitment

The updated target comes ahead of the UN deadline for governments to submit revised Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) before the COP30 climate summit in Brazil this November.

The goal is slightly below the 65–75% reduction range proposed by the Treasury Department and the independent Climate Change Authority, which advises the government on climate strategy.

Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen defended the decision:

“The target must be ambitious and achievable. Advice shows anything above 70% is not realistic, so we’ve set the maximum ambition that can be delivered.”

Government investments in clean energy

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a A$5 billion package to help industrial facilities decarbonise, alongside an additional A$2 billion investment for the Clean Energy Finance Corporation. The funding will accelerate renewable energy projects and ease electricity costs.

“We are not the largest polluter or the largest economy, but our actions matter,” Albanese said. “They matter to our neighbours, to our economy, and to the country we leave to future generations.”

Australia is also campaigning to host the UN climate summit in 2026, signaling its intent to play a stronger role in global climate diplomacy.

Climate risks facing Australia

The announcement follows the release of Australia’s first national climate risk assessment, which warned that:

• 1.5 million coastal residents could face rising sea levels by 2050.
• Heat-related deaths in Sydney may increase by 440% in a worst-case scenario.

Environmental groups argue the pledge does not go far enough, pushing for adoption of the upper-end 75% target to protect communities from escalating heatwaves, droughts, and flooding.

Global context

Among major economies, the UK has set the most ambitious target so far, aiming for a 78% reduction from 2005 levels. Australia’s new pledge places it among nations attempting bold transitions, though critics say stronger action is needed to align with the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C goal.