Australia raises 2035 emissions reduction target to 62 percent

  • 18/09/2025

Australia has elevated its climate commitment by pledging to reduce emissions by at least 62 percent from 2005 levels by 2035, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced. The updated target builds upon the government's existing promise of a 43 percent reduction by 2030 and follows a government-commissioned climate risk assessment that documented dangerous climate impacts including record floods, devastating bushfires, and mass coral bleaching.

The Climate Change Authority had recommended reductions between 62-70 percent by 2035 to align with Paris Agreement obligations. However, the new target faces significant political challenges, with opposition leader Sussan Ley declaring the Liberal National coalition "dead against" the goal due to cost and credibility concerns, while Greens and independents push for even faster emissions cuts.

Environmental advocates have criticized the government's simultaneous approval of fossil fuel projects, including Woodside's North West Shelf gas project authorized to operate until 2070, as undermining climate progress. Australia remains committed to achieving net zero by 2050 while balancing its fossil fuel reliance with renewable energy ambitions.

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