Media Release 20th November 2025
Uniting is disappointed at Australia and the Pacific's unsuccessful joint bid to host COP31 next year and sees it as recognition of the Australian Government's half measures when it comes to acting on the climate crisis and phasing out fossil fuels.
Rev. Faaimata (Mata) Havea Hiliau, Moderator of the Uniting Church Synod of NSW and ACT said: "We are all disappointed that Australia and the Pacific will not be hosting next year's COP31 climate summit.
"The importance of these meetings cannot be overstated, and many had hoped that we could shine a light on Australia and the Pacific by hosting this meeting.
"Climate impacts on the Church's social services and congregations are rapidly escalating.
"We are seeing in real time, the unfolding impacts of the climate crisis, not only for our communities here in Australia but for the people of the Pacific, whose livelihoods, homes, and culture are under immediate threat.
"We know what we need to do - Australia must stop digging up new fossil fuel reserves that we know we can't in good conscience ever burn - and should not export; ramp up investment in renewable energy and it must lift our own ambition in rapidly reducing emissions," Rev. Mata said.
Alice Salomon, Head of Advocacy, Uniting NSW.ACT, said: "This announcement on COP31 is a missed opportunity for Australia, the region and our future.
"While Australia appears to hold some of the Presidency functions it must still back long-standing Pacific demands for action.
"With Minister Bowen taking on the COP31 Presidency, Australia must make clear the Australian Government's strong public endorsement of the Belem fossil fuel phase out roadmap.
"We will continue to advocate for greater ambition and action on global heating and its devastating impacts not just in the Pacific but on the people we serve in the community.
"COP31 in Australia and the Pacific would have been a unique opportunity to shine a light on Australia and the region – to push our leaders to really act as leaders and decisively tackle climate change.
"Regardless of today's announcement, we will all redouble our collective efforts and continue to campaign for urgent action to address the climate crisis," Alice said.
