Sydney : Australia emissions target 2035 has been set at a sharp reduction of 62–70%, marking the country’s strongest climate commitment yet. The government said the ambitious goal aligns with its pledge to cut carbon emissions and move closer to its net zero 2050 objective, boosting Australia’s position in global climate negotiations.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the long-awaited 2035 target on Thursday, describing it as the “right target” to protect Australia’s environment and strengthen its economy.
“This is a responsible target supported by science, built on proven technology, and backed by a practical plan,” Albanese told reporters.
Government data released in August showed Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions were 28% lower in the year to March 2025 compared to 2005 levels.
Albanese’s Labor government had earlier committed to cutting emissions by at least 43% by 2030, a goal it insists remains on track, according to Xinhua news agency.
The Climate Change Authority (CCA), the government’s independent advisory body, provided the basis for the new target. Matt Kean, chair of the CCA, said he remains “hopeful” that Australia can exceed its 2035 target. He explained that the agency designed a flexible range to adapt to global uncertainties.
“We wanted a target that will future-proof our industries, our economy, and our way of life,” Kean said.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers added that Treasury’s modelling found Australia’s economy could be a “big beneficiary” if the government keeps setting clear targets and taking decisive action.
Alongside the new target, Albanese announced 8 billion AUD (5.3 billion USD) in fresh spending to cut emissions. The package includes 2 billion AUD (1.3 billion USD) for the Clean Energy Finance Corporation, 5 billion AUD (3.3 billion USD) for a new Net Zero Fund to help industries decarbonise, and 1.1 billion AUD (731.3 million USD) for boosting clean fuel production.
Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen called the clean energy transition a “major economic opportunity” for the nation. “Today the Albanese government decided to seize that opportunity,” he said.
Environmental groups, however, argued that the 62–70% target falls short. Greenpeace Australia Pacific warned that the range “undermines” global efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C. On the other hand, the Business Council of Australia described the goal as ambitious but achievable with significant investment and collaboration.
Opposition leader Sussan Ley pressed the government to be upfront about the cost of meeting the target.
Australia will formally submit its 2035 emissions reduction pledge at the UN General Assembly later this month.
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