The Federal Government's 2035 emissions reduction target of 62-70% is a failure of leadership that will expose Australia's most vulnerable communities to escalating climate risks.
ACOSS and the community sector called for a science-based and fair share emissions reduction target of net zero (100%) by 2035, 75% would have been an absolute minimum.
"The weak target announced today by the Albanese Government falls dangerously short of what the science requires and what is possible," ACOSS CEO Dr Cassandra Goldie said.
"Without greater action, we will face more heatwaves, more floods, a higher cost of living, and deeper inequality.
"The Federal government is failing to do enough to protect all communities. The people who will bear the heaviest burden are those on low incomes, regional communities and First Nations peoples. People are suffering now."
"The government had the opportunity to show real leadership, but they've chosen a path that leaves our most vulnerable communities exposed to increasing harm.
"Instead of protecting people, the government's approach is protecting the profits of coal, oil and gas corporations while households are left to foot the bill," Dr Goldie said.
The recent National Climate Risk Assessment painted a worrying picture, warning of escalating risks to homes, infrastructure, food, security and health.
"A strong 2035 target backed by credible, fair and inclusive policies would set Australia on a path to a safer and fairer future, by protecting communities from extreme weather and cutting household costs," Dr Goldie said.
"It would also accelerate the shift to clean energy and reduce reliance on expensive and volatile coal, oil and gas, while creating jobs in renewable industries and clean manufacturing, and revitalising regional communities."
ACOSS is calling on the Federal government to commit to a plan to:
- Reconsider its target at the international climate negotiations in November (COP30), where all countries will assess whether they are doing enough to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees
- Phase out fossil fuels
- Urgently increase investment to support people and communities at greatest risk of climate change impacts
- Accelerate home energy and resilience upgrades for renters, first nations communities and low-income homeowners.
- Create and fund local community led climate resilience hubs, to empower local communities to build their resilience and manage disaster response and recovery efforts.
- Strengthen the community sectors capacity in climate and disaster response, recovery and resilience.
