The United Kingdom’s recent announcement of an 81% emissions reduction below 1990 levels by 2035 highlights the potential for other nations, including Australia, to adopt ambitious climate targets. Experts believe such a commitment could accelerate investment and facilitate the growth of clean industries. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s declaration at the COP29 UN Climate Summit in Azerbaijan received praise from environmental campaigners and climate experts, who noted that concrete plans would be necessary to meet this bold pledge. The UK is among the first large nations to set a 2035 target, well ahead of the UN’s deadline next February.
For Australia, the UK’s target translates to a 78% cut below 2005 levels—the baseline against which Australia measures its climate goals. Yet, the Albanese government has postponed setting its own target, potentially until after the next federal election. This delay, according to officials, stems from awaiting a recommendation from the Climate Change Authority (CCA).
Preliminary guidance from the authority earlier this year suggested that a reduction target of at least 65%, and potentially up to 75%, would be both ambitious and feasible for Australia. Kean noted that the UK’s example of high ambition could “focus everyone’s attention on what’s possible,” adding that a rigorous target could catalyze widespread engagement and commitment to climate action.
Erwin Jackson, policy director at the Investor Group on Climate Change, advocates for Australia to emulate the UK’s approach by tying its emissions reduction targets to recommendations from an independent advisory body, such as Australia’s CCA. He stated that Australia, due to its extensive reliance on coal, possesses a relatively low-cost path to emissions reduction, primarily by transitioning to renewable energy sources. Jackson emphasized that while the UK and Australia differ in economic structure, Australia’s plentiful and affordable renewable resources could support highly ambitious targets. In his view, a robust target would signal investment potential, attracting capital and ensuring Australia’s economic prosperity, whereas the absence of a strong target could cause investors to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Alison Reeve, deputy director of energy and climate at the Grattan Institute and former public servant in climate policy, pointed out key differences between the UK and Australia, particularly the UK’s reduced heavy industry footprint. This, along with the UK’s reliance on gas heating and aging housing infrastructure, may make it more challenging for the UK to achieve substantial emissions reductions in specific sectors compared to Australia. Reeve added that for Australia, transitioning fully to renewable energy requires a departure from fossil fuels, as a thriving renewable sector relies on a demand shift away from fossil-based energy.
According to Reeve, climate targets are not merely numbers but reflect a vision of the future economy. She posited that the UK appears to have embraced this outlook, viewing ambitious targets as an opportunity to develop new industries and harness the advantages of the energy transition. The Australian Greens and independent MPs have urged the government to establish a 2035 target, with some advocating for a minimum 75% cut, aiming to safeguard both the environment and the economy.
Amanda McKenzie, CEO of the Climate Council, stated that the UK’s commitment exemplifies that emissions reduction aligns with national interests worldwide. She cited the council’s analysis, which recommends Australia achieve net zero emissions by 2035 to align with the Paris Agreement’s goal of keeping global warming well below 2°C. This objective would require Australia to reduce emissions by 75% by 2030, with most progress occurring this decade.
Brazil, host of the COP30 summit next year, also announced a 2035 target at COP29, pledging a 59%–67% reduction from 2005 levels. As a top emitter, Brazil faces less pressure to act quickly than wealthier countries, but its plan represents an improvement, even though campaigners argue for more detailed, substantial commitments.
An Australian government representative indicated that establishing UN climate commitments, or nationally determined contributions (NDCs), involves input from the Climate Change Authority. The spokesperson affirmed that while Australia remains on course to meet its 2030 targets, the 2035 target would be ambitious yet achievable. In contrast, opposition leader Peter Dutton has pledged to abandon Labor’s 2030 goal (a 43% cut), potentially isolating Australia from the Paris Agreement and delaying renewable energy initiatives in favor of extending coal and gas infrastructure while supporting nuclear power development by 2040.
Additionally, the Australian government committed to international climate action, backing a loan guarantee of up to $200 million for climate resilience projects in Pacific and Southeast Asian countries through the Asian Development Bank.
