The Albanese Government’s Climate Change Bill 2022 has passed the House of Representatives today.
The Bill will enshrine into law an emissions reduction target of 43 per cent from 2005 levels by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050.
It has brought together business, industry, unions, farmers, community and conservation groups, all of whom have asked the Parliament to put Australia on the path to net-zero emissions.
For nine years, Australia has stumbled from one policy to another, and this overdue legislation will provide energy and investment certainty and usher the next generation of economic growth and opportunity.
It locks in 43 per cent as Australia’s target to reduce emissions and ensures a whole-of-government approach to drive towards that target.
It ensures accountability through an annual update to Parliament by the Climate Change Minister on the progress being made towards the target and empowers the Climate Change Authority to provide advice to Government on future targets.
Passing this Bill in the House of Representatives only 75 days after the election is an important step towards implementing the Albanese Government’s Powering Australia plan to create jobs, put downward pressure on power bills and reduce emissions by boosting renewable energy.
“This Bill records the Government’s ambition to take the country forward on climate action – and it reflects our determination to bring people with us,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.
“It will help open the way for new jobs, new industries, new technologies and a new era of prosperity for Australian manufacturing.”
Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen said: “As we said in the Nationally Determined Contribution to the UNFCCC, we expect that with government, business and the community all pulling in one direction, our emissions reduction can be even greater” said
“I want to thank all members of the House of Representatives that voted in favour of the legislation and their constructive contributions in its formation.
“The passing of this bill in the House of Representatives starts a new era of climate and energy certainty, one that is well overdue.”
The Bill will now proceed to the Senate to be debated in upcoming sitting weeks.