- Climate Change Bill 2023 introduced to Parliament
- Establishes framework for emissions reductions and climate resilience in Western Australia
- Formalises State Government's goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2050
The Cook Government is continuing to take strong and sensible action on climate change with the introduction of Climate Change Bill 2023 to Parliament.
That legislation, introduced today, formalises several major climate action commitments, including a net zero emissions by 2050 target, and a requirement to develop strategies and plans to reduce emissions and enhance climate resilience.
The Bill will also strengthen accountability through a requirement for annual progress reporting to Parliament and the setting of interim targets.
It will also provide a clear and consistent framework for action and long-term certainty that enhances investor and business confidence, and accelerates investment.
The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation received more than 260 submissions which were considered in development of the legislation.
Among those consulted during the development of the Bill were First Nations people, industry bodies, agriculture, water and conservation sectors, Government agencies, local governments, universities, advocacy groups and non-government organisations.
The legislation complements several other actions undertaken by the Cook Government, including:
- The Climate Adaptation Strategy released earlier this year;
- Sectoral Emissions Reduction Strategies, which will be launched in December;
- Removing all coal-fired power from the South West Interconnected System - Perth's main energy grid, by 2030; and
- Reducing State Government emissions by 80 per cent by 2030.
As stated by Climate Action Minister Reece Whitby:
"This legislation will ensure the State's commitment to climate action is enduring and consistent, while providing Western Australia with stable, clear, and necessary policies to reduce emissions.
"The legislation is focused on State Government accountability in policy development and reporting, and target-setting - so we can lead by example.
"Climate change legislation supports other measures taken by the Government, including the Sectoral Emissions Reduction Strategies which lay the foundation for the path to net zero by 2050."
