| This Overview of Australia's Climate Change Politics is part of a series examining the impact of Lethal Heating
in key areas, including: |
Australia’s climate change politics are highly contentious, shaped by economic dependence on fossil fuels, extreme climate impacts, and political divisions.
The country is both a major contributor to climate change—being one of the world’s largest coal and gas exporters—and one of the most vulnerable to its effects, experiencing worsening bushfires, heatwaves, and coral bleaching.
1. Government Policies & Commitments
a. International Commitments
- Paris Agreement (2015): Australia committed to reducing emissions by 43% below 2005 levels by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050.
- COP Conferences: Australia has historically been seen as a laggard in climate negotiations, resisting stronger emissions reductions and fossil fuel phase-outs.
- Pacific Climate Diplomacy: Australia faces pressure from Pacific Island nations, which are highly vulnerable to rising sea levels. The Albanese government has promised stronger engagement, but its continued fossil fuel exports undermine its credibility.
b. Domestic Climate Policies
- Safeguard Mechanism (2023): A reform under the Albanese government requiring major polluters to reduce emissions.
- Renewable Energy Targets: The government aims for 82% renewable electricity by 2030, expanding solar, wind, and battery storage.
- Gas & Coal Expansion: Despite green commitments, Australia continues approving new coal and gas projects, sparking criticism from climate advocates.
2. Political Divides on Climate Action
Climate change has been a divisive issue in Australian politics, often determining elections and leadership changes.
a. Labor Party (ALP)
- Historically cautious on climate due to electoral fears, but has strengthened policies under Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
- Supports renewable energy investment but avoids direct confrontation with fossil fuel industries.
- Pledged net zero by 2050 and 43% emissions reduction by 2030, but critics say it’s not enough.
b. Liberal-National Coalition (LNP)
- Traditionally sceptical of strong climate action, favouring coal and gas industries.
- Former Prime Minister Scott Morrison (2019–2022) was criticised for weak climate policies, symbolised by his infamous "I brought a lump of coal to Parliament" moment.
- The Coalition now debates whether to embrace stronger climate policies or maintain fossil fuel support.
c. The Greens
- Strongest climate action advocates, pushing for 75% emissions reduction by 2030 and an end to new coal and gas projects.
- Key players in negotiating climate legislation, sometimes blocking bills they see as too weak.
d. Independents & "Teal" Candidates
- In the 2022 federal election, a wave of "Teal Independents" (centrist, pro-climate action candidates) defeated Liberal MPs in wealthy urban electorates.
- This shift forced the major parties to take climate action more seriously.
3. Fossil Fuel Industry & Lobbying
- Australia is the world’s second-largest coal exporter and a major LNG (liquefied natural gas) producer.
- The fossil fuel industry has strong political influence, with heavy donations to major parties.
- New gas projects, such as Scarborough, Beetaloo Basin, and Narrabri, continue despite warnings from scientists.
- The Australian government provides billions in subsidies to fossil fuel companies, even as it promotes renewables.
4. Climate Impacts & Public Opinion
a. Extreme Weather Events
- Bushfires (Black Summer 2019–20): Destroyed over 18 million hectares, killed 33 people, and burned 3 billion animals.
- Heatwaves & Droughts: Increasingly frequent and severe, affecting agriculture and water supply.
- Flooding: Major disasters in Queensland and New South Wales in 2022 caused billions in damages.
- Great Barrier Reef Bleaching: Multiple mass bleaching events threaten the reef’s survival.
b. Public Attitudes
- Polls show Australians increasingly support stronger climate action, especially after extreme weather events.
- However, climate action remains polarizing in regional areas dependent on coal and gas jobs.
5. Future Outlook & Challenges
- Economic Transition: Australia must balance phasing out fossil fuels with creating new clean energy jobs, particularly in coal-dependent communities.
- Pacific Relations: Australia’s credibility in the Pacific hinges on stronger climate action, as island nations demand an end to fossil fuel expansion.
- Political Shifts: Future elections could see further climate-driven changes, especially if the public demands stronger policies.
- Global Pressure: Trading partners like the EU may impose carbon tariffs on Australian exports, forcing stricter policies.
Conclusion
Australia is at a crossroads. While its government is making progress on climate policy, continued fossil fuel expansion undermines its commitments. The country faces mounting pressure—both domestically and internationally—to act faster and more decisively.
Links
- If not now, when? Australia must urgently ramp up climate action following record-breaking year
- $11 million to build and grow on Australian research in climate change and health
- Politicians kneecap charities, climate in electoral power grab
- How climate change impacts crocodiles
- Victoria’s Climate Change Strategy
- Born too late? Climate change may be delaying births
- How climate change is reshaping real estate and economic geography
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