A decade-long global effort for sustainable transport has started and Australia has a lot to gain by joining in

By embracing the UN Decade of Sustainable Transport, Australia can see profound benefits by 2035.

Reducing transport electricity demand as Australia decarbonises

In a future that will use a lot of electricity, any opportunity to lower demand is worth pursuing

Submission on Freight Policy Reform: Interim Directions to Transport for New South Wales

The transport sector is the third-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Australia, and it is on track to be the largest by 2030.

Submission on the Transport and Infrastructure Net Zero Consultation Roadmap to the Australian Government Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts

The Transport and Infrastructure Net Zero Roadmap and Action Plan provides an ideal opportunity to incorporate an integrated approach to decarbonise transport and develop a credible decarbonisation plan.

Submission on low carbon liquid fuel opportunities for a Future Made in Australia to the Australian Government Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts has conducted a consultation on Future Made in Australia: Unlocking Australia’s low carbon liquid fuel opportunity.  Climateworks Centre acknowledges the important role that low carbon liquid fuels (LCLFs) may have in decarbonising certain activities in transport and industry sub-sectors.

Eight recommendations for Australia’s Transport and Infrastructure Net Zero Roadmap

By getting the settings right for how transport is planned and funded, Australia can set itself up for a smoother, more effective transition – maximising emissions reductions and other benefits.

Submission on the draft National Urban Policy for Australia to the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts has conducted a consultation on the draft National Urban Policy (NUP), seeking feedback on the role that all levels of government, industry and the community can play in improving Australian cities and suburbs.

Interactive: Decarbonising transport, Australia’s fastest growing source of emissions

Explore how different combinations of solutions can contribute to a credible decarbonisation plan for Australia’s transport sector.

New modelling: Australia’s credible transport transition beyond electric vehicles

Climateworks Centre releases new report, ‘Decarbonising Australia’s transport sector: Diverse solutions for a credible emissions reduction plan’.

Decarbonising Australia’s transport sector: Diverse solutions for a credible emissions reduction plan 

Governments across Australia can apply an integrated approach to decarbonising transport that adds efficiency and transport choice, while also reducing emissions. 

How to reduce Australia’s transport emissions – The Briefing Room

Join Climateworks experts as we launch our new report

Submission on the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard to the Australian Government Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts has sought responses to a consultation paper on the proposed design and implementation of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES).

Delivering freight decarbonisation: Strategies for reducing Australia’s transport emissions

By implementing available solutions in short-haul freight, Australia can start reducing 51 per cent of its freight emissions immediately.

Transport Pathways to Net Zero

It’s time for Australia to diversify its transport decarbonisation solutions to reach net zero and reap the rewards of a cleaner transport sector.

Thinking beyond EVs to decarbonise Australia’s transport sector

Transport is Australia's third-largest source of emissions. There are more solutions to decarbonise the sector than just changing the car we drive, write Climateworks experts Helen Rowe and Rachel Lynskey.

Australian federal and state governments pick up pace on renewables, transport and industry emissions, latest analysis shows

New Climateworks Centre report provides a comprehensive, economy-wide survey of Australia’s climate policies and programs in 2022.

Australia’s transport emissions: the role of hydrogen in reaching zero emissions

In our latest piece examining the complex and interdependent nature of the transport system, Rachel Lynskey explores the role of green hydrogen – made with renewable energy – in reducing emissions for certain transport modes.

Australia’s transport emissions: the role of infrastructure in reaching zero emissions

The next in a series on the complex and interdependent nature of the transport system, Rachel Lynskey explores how infrastructure can lay the foundations for a zero emissions transport sector.

Australia’s transport emissions: the role of electric vehicles in reaching zero emissions

Climateworks’ first article unpacking the issues and opportunities for reducing emissions in the transport sector, where we explore how electric vehicles fit into the net zero conversation.

Australia’s transport emissions: seeing the sector as a whole shows a path to zero emissions

Understanding (and visualising) the complexity of a sector can accelerate action on climate. To tackle emissions from transport, the sector should be considered as a whole.

Indonesia has set an ambitious target for electric vehicles: what factors can support the nation’s shift to an electric-dominated transport sector?

Is Indonesia heading towards its first tipping point for electric vehicles?

The briefing room: Transport – moving to zero

New Climateworks research identifies the solutions available now to shift Australia’s transport network to net zero emissions. But the barriers are real.

Australia can transform the transport network to become a global leader

One of Australia’s largest and fastest growing sources of emissions is ripe for transformation.

Net zero momentum tracker – transport report

More actions are needed if Australia’s transportation sector is to cut emissions in line with global goals. The Net Zero Momentum Tracker Transport Sector report evaluates the climate commitments of 32 Australian transport operators and logistics companies to assess their alignment with the goal of net zero emissions by 2050, a key element of the Paris Climate Agreement.

Submission to the inquiry into electric buses in regional and metropolitan public transport networks in New South Wales

Electric buses can reduce costs, improve air quality and support local industries. In December 2019 Climateworks Australia was invited to make a submission to the New South Wales government inquiry into electric buses for regional and metropolitan public transport networks.

Transport

Transport emissions are rising due to population and domestic product growth. But the sector offers one of the most profitable emissions reduction opportunities.  In 2018, Australia’s transport emissions were up 19% from 2005 levels.

The future of private transport in Australia

How can we move people and goods in the most efficient, safe and sustainable way? Private transport is transforming rapidly as electric and autonomous vehicles, car and ride share services disrupt the status quo.

Submission to the Artificial Intelligence and Data Centres Inquiry and Report consultation

This submission outlines an approach that would allow AI and data centres to expand in the Australian market while supporting the broader decarbonisation effort, protecting resources, centring the interests of communities and ensuring ongoing benefit for the nation.

Submission to AEMC consultation on facilitating electric vehicle charging infrastructure under Commonwealth grants

In this submission, we urge the AEMC to pursue electric vehicle charging infrastructure rule changes to maximise whole-of-system benefits.

Submission to AEMC draft determination on enhancing distribution network planning and reporting

In this submission, Climateworks recommends that the AEMC pursue rule changes that support the Australian Energy Regulator to strengthen electricity distribution network planning and reporting frameworks in ways that improve whole-of-system coordination and planning confidence.

Rethinking Australia’s approach to land use

Australia's land is being pushed to its limits by competing policies and priorities. A national framework for land use can support nature, communities and the economy while respecting Indigenous ways of caring for Country and delivering on climate. And new spatial modelling from Climateworks Centre and Deakin University can help.

Australia’s 2026 federal budget’s long-term impact will be in the details

Long-term measures will determine Australia’s competitive advantage in the future

‘Positioning capital for the economy ahead’: Anna Skarbek AM speaks at 2026 ACSI Conference

Climateworks Centre CEO Anna Skarbek AM launches new briefing paper on corporate climate transition plans in the Australian superannuation industry.

Submission on the Australian Treasury’s statutory review of the electric car discount

In this submission, we present evidence from Climateworks modelling showing the rate of electric vehicle uptake that can achieve Australia’s climate goals and outline the critical and ongoing role for the electric car discount in achieving this goal.

Climateworks experts on the key trends in climate action for 2026

This year’s climate action agenda is jam-packed and 2026 is the moment where ambition can translate into delivery.

Turning the tide: Advancing Indonesia’s blue economy through ocean-based mitigation actions

Indonesia’s ocean is central to its climate and economic future. As the world’s largest archipelagic nation, home to 17 per cent of global blue-carbon ecosystems, Indonesia has an unparalleled opportunity to align its blue economy ambitions with its climate goals.

Climateworks experts comment as UN Climate Change Conference COP30 begins

The 2025 United Nations Climate Change Conference, or COP30, is being held in Belém, Brazil, from 10 to 21 November 2025.

Powering Ho Chi Minh City’s future with net zero industrial precincts

Seizing Ho Chi Minh City’s low-carbon economic opportunities with a net zero industrial precinct approach is both an economic imperative and a climate opportunity.

Seven things Australia can do today to meet its new climate goal

Australia has the technologies to meet and exceed its new emissions target. The work now is to ensure they’re deployed at scale, write Anna Skarbek AM, Anna Malos and Katherine Quinn for The Conversation.

Target set, solutions ready, now time to deliver

Submission on the interim report on investing in cheaper, cleaner energy and the net zero transformation to the Productivity Commission

The Productivity Commission has been asked by the Australian Government to conduct an inquiry into Investing in cheaper, cleaner energy and the net zero transformation. 

Submission to the Australian Government’s Economic Reform Roundtable

Climateworks Centre welcomes the opportunity to put forward our proposals on road user charging and renewable energy infrastructure planning and permitting to the Economic Reform Roundtable.

This superannuation reform could turn a brake into an accelerator for Australia’s future 

The quickest productivity reform in Canberra requires no taxpayer dollars, just smarter superannuation benchmarks.

Designed right, road user charging can modernise how Australians move

A well-designed road user charging scheme could help cut congestion, reduce emissions, lower infrastructure costs and improve the overall efficiency of Australia’s transport network. 

Here are some productivity and economic reform opportunities for Australia, according to Climateworks experts

Climateworks experts Helen Rowe, Cassandra Williams, Kylie Turner and Liam Walsh each identify one key opportunity for productivity and economic reform in Australia

Submission to the New South Wales Net Zero Commission 2025 consultation

The New South Wales (NSW) Net Zero Commission has solicited submissions to help shape their work plan and to inform the advice and policy recommendations provided to the NSW Government.

Submission on Victoria’s Climate Change Strategy 2026–2030 to the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action

The Victorian Government has undertaken consultation as part of the development of its second Climate Change Strategy. Climateworks commends the ambitious climate action and commitments taken by the Victorian Government to date.

Five huge climate opportunities await the next parliament – and it has the numbers to deliver

The next three years will provide vital opportunities for Australia to position itself as a leader in the global net zero economy, write Climateworks' Anna Skarbek and Anna Malos in this article for The Conversation.

How does climate change affect my business?

Mandatory climate-related financial disclosures are now in effect for many large Australian businesses and financial institutions. This requires a strategic response.

Submission to the National Energy Market wholesale market settings review initial consultation

The rapid decarbonisation of the electricity and energy system is essential for Australia to meet its obligations under the Paris Agreement. Electricity generation is the nation's largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. The adoption of renewables will reduce emissions by approximately one-third and will have powerful flow-on effects for other sectors of the economy.

New state and territory numbers reveal national climate progress

Climateworks releases new report, 'Leading climate policies from Australia's states and territories'.

Leading climate policies from Australia’s states and territories

Since the Paris Agreement was signed in 2015, countries around the world have increasingly recognised climate change as a shared challenge and begun to implement emissions reduction plans.

Submission to the Australian Energy Market Operator on the 2026 Integrated System Plan Methodology consultation

The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has conducted a consultation on the ISP methodology which will inform the cost-benefit and modelling approaches used to prepare the 2026 Integrated System Plan. 

Diesel-thirsty mining can fuel an energy revolution

Reforming the fuel tax credits scheme can be a future-proofing economic opportunity, write Climateworks Centre's Luke Brown, Kylie Turner and Anna Malos for 360info.

Speech: Anna Skarbek speaks on Climateworks’ 15 year anniversary

Climateworks celebrated 15 years with staff and supporters at the State Library of Victoria

At the forefront of climate solutions

A look back on 15 years of Climateworks Centre

Australia has just been handed a map for getting to net zero. Here’s how it will guide us

Emissions pathways act as a map of the future, showing us how to get from where we are to where we want to be.

Submission to the Senate Economic Legislation Committee on the Future Made in Australia Bills

In July 2024, the Senate of the Parliament of Australia referred the provisions of the Future Made in Australia Bill 2024 and the Future Made in Australia (Omnibus Amendments No.

Fortescue has put its ambitious green hydrogen target on hold – but Australia should keep powering ahead

Fortescue's hydrogen announcement highlights the gap that government support aims to fill, write Climateworks Centre's Sustainable Economies Lead Kylie Turner and Head of Policy and Engagement Luke Brown.

Submission on the Hydrogen Production Tax Incentive to the Department of the Treasury

Developing renewable hydrogen markets and capabilities is a foundational element required to to achieve Australia’s emissions reduction targets and unlock the benefits of the global shift to a net zero economy.

EVs alone won’t save Australia from climate emergency

The more decarbonisation solutions that are in the mix, the less risky the road ahead will be for Australia's transport sector, writes Climateworks Centre's Lily Rau for 360info.

Submission on the Climate Change Authority’s 2024 Targets, Pathways and Progress Issues Paper

The Climate Change Authority (the Authority) is reviewing the potential technology transition and emission pathways that will best support Australia’s transition to net zero emissions by 2050 for six sectors: agriculture and land, built environment, electricity and energy, industry and waste, resources, and transport.

Future Made in Australia could act as ‘national net zero filter’ 

Climateworks Centre experts respond to the Australian federal Budget handed down by Treasurer the Hon Dr Jim Chalmers MP on Tuesday 14 May.

Submission on the Electricity and Energy Sector Plan to the Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water has conducted a consultation on its Electricity and Energy Sector Plan Discussion Paper. 

Nature-based sequestration in our decarbonisation scenarios for Australia

Land-based sequestration will play an important role in Australia’s net zero transition, counterbalancing hard-to-abate emissions, Climateworks Centre modelling shows.

Submission on the National Battery Strategy Issues Paper to the Australian Government Department of Industry Science and Resources

In 2023, the Australian Government sought advice on the National Battery Strategy to develop industry policy for manufacturing batteries in Australia.

Submission on the transition to electric vehicles to an inquiry by the Australian Government Standing Committee on Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water

The Australian Government Standing Committee on Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water has invited written submissions as part of its inquiry into the transition to electric vehicles.

How Australia’s gas use is reduced in our decarbonisation scenarios

We delve deeper into the data to explore how gas use changes in our decarbonisation scenarios for Australia.

Portia Odell

Portia leads this team to reduce emissions within cities across the built environment, infrastructure and transport sectors across Australia and the Asia Pacific region.

Matthew Benetti

Matthew provides expert policy advice designed to accelerate Australia’s transition to clean energy. He informs and supports system teams and external stakeholders as they work to decarbonise the grid and implement net-zero industries, transport and buildings.  His experience in government, working on consumer energy resources, energy innovation and providing precise and practical policy guidance, means he is well placed to advise decision makers on the renewables transformation.  Previously, Matthew was Head of Social Innovation at the Foundation for Young Australians where he built the capacity and capabilities of young people leading social and environmental impact enterprises.

Recommendations to accelerate and achieve net zero cities in Australia

Establishing net zero cities is critical to achieving Australia’s climate targets. Net zero cities are defined by the mitigation of emissions from the economic, social and environmental systems that make up cities.

Net Zero Cities

Transitioning Australian cities to net zero is crucial to reducing carbon emissions, protecting its citizens from major climate change impacts, increasing access to nature and increasing livability for those who live, work and visit our cities.

How could Australia actually get to net zero? Here’s how

Climateworks Centre's latest analysis shows a 1.5°C least-cost pathway would see Australia reach net zero more than a decade earlier than the current goal of 2050, Anna Skarbek, Anna Malos and Michael Li write for The Conversation.

Australia can still decarbonise in line with the Paris Agreement

Climateworks Centre decarbonisation scenarios 2023: Australia can still meet the Paris Agreement

Climateworks Centre's latest scenarios show Australia can reduce emissions by 85 per cent by 2035.

Australia’s green hydrogen hour has arrived

Green hydrogen could be a fossil fuels replacement in some sectors if Australia takes the immediate steps to embrace it, writes Climateworks Centre's Dr Tyra Horngren for 360info.

Decarbonising short-haul road freight could halve Australia’s freight emissions

Climateworks releases new report, 'Delivering freight decarbonisation: Strategies for reducing Australia’s transport emissions'.

Jarrod Grainger-Brown

Jarrod provides research and analysis across all projects in the Cities system, including transport, built environment, infrastructure and city governance.He is responsible for developing project specific methodologies, conducting original research, project managing the analysis activities, generating knowledge products, and establishing broader research,quality and validity processes across the Cities team.

The road is long and time is short, but Australia’s pace towards net zero is quickening

Climateworks CEO Anna Skarbek writes as part of a series by The Conversation, Getting to Zero, examining Australia’s energy transition.

Submission to the review of the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts is conducting a review into the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy. 

Blue carbon and ocean-based sectors can meet half of Indonesia’s net zero target by 2050: report

Climateworks Centre releases new report from its Southeast Asia Framework for Ocean Action in Mitigation (SEAFOAM) project, 'Sea of Opportunity: Ocean-based mitigation to support Indonesia's climate ambition'.

Sea of opportunity: Ocean-based mitigation to support Indonesia’s climate ambition

This report assesses the mitigation potential of coastal and ocean areas and their contribution to Indonesia’s 'Second NDC', and suggests mechanisms for including the ocean in the forthcoming NDC. In addition to examining mitigation potential, it also provides details of key relevance to decision makers such as enabling and economic factors, scientific gaps and the likely flow-on effects.

Submission to the National Hydrogen Strategy review

The Australian government is conducting a review of the National Hydrogen Strategy. The first National Hydrogen Strategy was written in 2019, and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water is consulting on what the new Strategy should include.

Raising Australian building standards can deliver climate-ready homes sooner

New revisions to the National Construction Code must continue to raise the standard for residential building energy performance - not only to reduce emissions, but also to lower energy bills and improve health outcomes for residents.

Indonesia can lead the way on ocean-based climate action. New Climateworks analysis and mapping shows how

Climateworks’ Southeast Asia Framework for Ocean Action in Mitigation phase 1 report analysed three sectors: blue carbon, offshore renewable energy and shipping.

Analisis dan pemetaan Climateworks menunjukkan peluang Indonesia untuk memimpin aksi iklim berbasis kelautan

Climateworks’ SEAFOAM menganalisis peluang mitigasi di tiga sektor; karbon biru (blue carbon), energi terbarukan lepas pantai, dan perkapalan.

Sea of opportunity: The role of ocean mitigation in Indonesia’s decarbonisation

Ocean-based climate mitigation could provide up to one-quarter of the emissions reductions needed to keep global warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Sectoral decarbonisation plans a welcome priority for Australia’s government 

Climateworks Centre welcomes Minister Chris Bowen’s announcement of decarbonisation plans for all major economic sectors, in pursuit of net zero emissions

Submission to the Climate Change Authority’s consultation on setting, tracking and achieving Australia’s emissions reduction targets

Australia has major opportunities in a net zero global economy from its renewable energy and mineral resources. However, Australia’s current high emissions intensity means that there are many challenges to transform the economy and reach net zero emissions.

Penjelasan pasar karbon sukarela

Sebuah ringkasan terkait pasar karbon sukarela untuk pembuat kebijakan.

For Jannata (Egi) Giwangkara, Indonesia’s energy transition is ‘personal’

Meet Senior Project Manager Egi Giwangkara, and get an inside perspective on Climateworks Centre’s work in Indonesia.

Submission on the Australian Government’s Fuel Efficiency Standard Consultation Paper

Climateworks Centre supports the Australian Government’s commitment to introduce a fuel efficiency standard (FES) at this critical time for decarbonising transport.

How Australia can reduce greenhouse gas emissions in ‘hard to abate’ sectors

Australia’s hardest to abate sectors contribute substantially to its annual emissions, but they can be part of Australia reaching net zero in line with limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, writes Dr Tessa Leach.

The Australian Federal Budget takes important steps toward net zero on hydrogen, housing and more

There is much to do if Australia is to grasp the opportunities of a net zero future. This week's Federal Budget takes some fundamental steps in the right direction.

How universities can spearhead the net zero revolution

United Nations SDSN, Climateworks and Monash Energy Institute release guide to help educational institutions decarbonise

Good news in climate solutions for March, 2023

Our regular round-up highlighting positive steps towards a net zero future.

Submission to the Australian Governments’ consultation on proposed legislative changes to incorporate an emissions reduction objective into the national energy objectives

The transformation of the energy system is crucial for the decarbonisation of Australia’s economy. It has substantial emissions in its own right – with electricity generation around a third of national emissions and other stationary energy around another fifth.

How our economy-wide decarbonisation models are helping to guide the energy transition

Climateworks Centre and CSIRO's updates to the powerful AusTIMES model are supporting the Australian Energy Market Operator in its planning for a net zero future.

Renewable energy industrial precincts explained

We answer key questions about renewable energy industrial precincts – what they are, their benefits, best practice, and how to fund them.

In 2022, Australia’s governments finally got moving on climate. Here’s how

Australia's governments substantially improved their climate action goals this year. But we’re not home yet, write Alison Cleary and Sarah Fumei in this piece for the Conversation.

Government climate action: Leading policies and programs in Australia

This report analyses targets, policies and programs announced by Australian federal, state and territory governments, with a focus on policies introduced since the publication of our previous report on state and territory climate action.  Building on previous emissions reduction commitments (our 2021 report found that state and territory interim targets translated to an estimated 37–42 per cent reduction below 2005 emissions by 2030, Australia-wide) the states and territories continue to increase their climate action, allocating billions of dollars to emissions reduction measures and making significant regulatory and legislative changes.  At a national level, the federal government this year legislated national emissions reduction targets of 43 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050, reflecting an increase in ambition.

Half of Australia’s biggest companies have net-zero emissions plans, but there’s more to be done

The momentum in the last six months demonstrates increasing corporate confidence, willingness, and an understanding of what’s required to reach net-zero emissions, write Climateworks Centre's Tom Wainwright and Coral Bravo.

Lily Rau

Lily manages projects in Climateworks’ Transport team, working with government and industry stakeholders to drive decarbonisation in the transport sector. She was lead author for the program’s Decarbonising Australia’s transport sector report, published in 2024.

Climateworks at the G20 in Indonesia

At the same time Egypt hosted COP27, Indonesia hosted the G20.

Climateworks executive Ian Porter moves into key Australian Government role

Head of Program Delivery Ian Porter will move to a senior climate-related role in the Australian Public Service.

Submission on the National Electric Vehicle Strategy Consultation Paper

Climateworks Centre welcomes the Federal Government’s commitment to developing a National Electric Vehicle Strategy (NEVS) at this critical time for decarbonising transport.

Submission on Victoria’s emissions reduction target for 2035

Note: In this submission provided to the Victorian Government in May 2022, we recommended Victoria set a 2035 emissions reduction target of 75-80 per cent below 2005 levels, based on a 1.5 degrees Celsius least cost pathway for Australia.

ASEAN, Australia and the role of climate cooperation in Southeast Asia’s net zero goals

Climateworks Centre’s Trang Nguyen and Michael Dolan discuss the opportunities for a swiftly developing region in a decarbonising world.

There’s no path to net zero without nature

Explore how land use, nature and measuring its value can all form part of the climate solution

Good news in climate solutions – September 2022

Our monthly round-up highlighting positive steps towards a net zero future.

Good news in climate solutions — August 2022

Our monthly round-up highlighting positive steps towards a net zero future.

Mudabber Ashfaq

Enthusiastic about research and new technologies, Mudabber leads work on updating Climateworks’ transport modelling and further transport analysis, to reach net-zero emissions.  Prior to Climateworks, Mudabber was a PhD researcher at UNSW in Transportation Engineering, focusing on developing a new approach for modelling and understanding traffic congestion.

Accelerating EV uptake: Policies to realise Australia’s electric vehicle potential

The global shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is well underway, but Australia’s EV uptake lags behind this trend. In 2021, just two per cent of cars sold in Australia were EVs, despite half of all Australians seeing their next car purchase as an EV.

Accelerating Australia’s EV uptake can save vehicle owners $1,300 per year in running costs

A new Climateworks Centre report shows how raising Australia's EV ambition would benefit consumers and cut transport emissions.

Energy Ministers’ meeting an important step in Australia’s net zero transition

The Ministers have shown they understand that they have to think about the energy system in an integrated way, writes Climateworks' Anna Malos.

How can energy regulation help Australia reach net zero?

The current interpretation of the National Electricity Objective is not 'fit for purpose' when it comes to meeting the climate challenge, says Climateworks Centre chairman Professor John Thwaites AM.

Electricity demand management has huge potential — and Australia has just scratched the surface

More can be done to encourage households to reduce their electricity demand, write Climateworks Centre's Anna Malos and Dr Emi Gui.

How net zero is the new normal — part two

Part two of a two part series covering CEO Anna Skarbek and an expert panel discussing the what and the why of our climate choices in a recent CEDA event - from investment to a fair and equitable transition.

How changing whole systems can help solve the climate challenge

A closer look at Climateworks’ systems change approach asks why and how it can help accelerate the transition to net zero emissions for Australia, Southeast Asia and the Pacific.

Here’s what to expect from the Labor government on climate

In an election where public concern over climate change was a clear factor, Climateworks Centre explores how the new government’s climate policy aligns with what’s needed for net zero.

How to ‘bend the curve’ of emissions in each sector during the next term of government to stay aligned with 1.5 degrees

Australians will soon head to the polls to elect the government to take us to 2025 – the global deadline for peak emissions.

The latest IPCC report sets a challenge. Here are some ways to meet it

IPCC report says there is a path to limit warming to 1.5°C — if we act urgently. So what could that action look like?

In 2022, Australia has every reason to act on climate

As we step forward into 2022, the second year of the critical decade, here are some key moves Australia can make to catalyse climate action and ensure a strong, vibrant economy.

ASEAN’s Emerging Mission for a Low Carbon Energy Transition

Jannata (Egi) Giwangkara and Michael Dolan share three propositions for ASEAN, based on Phase 1 of the Green Future Project. 

ASEAN Green Future – Phase 1 Reports

Member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are already raising their climate commitments to meet the Paris Agreement aspiration of limiting global warming to 1.5°C.

ASEAN Green Future Project: Further, Faster, Together

The ASEAN Green Future project released a series of reports from local country teams to understand the policies and opportunities to reduce emissions and go further, faster, together.

Cities in Australia are a major cause of emissions – but they can be a part of the climate solution, too

Cities can rapidly decarbonise by focusing on reducing emissions from infrastructure, buildings and transport.

The briefing room: After COP26 – How infrastructure can help deliver net zero

What does the future of Australia’s infrastructure look like, when seen through a low-carbon lens? Infrastructure influences around 70 per cent of Australia’s annual greenhouse gas emissions.

Pathways to net zero the focus for CEDA discussion with Ministers, industry and Climateworks CEO

Pathways to net zero, the focus of Climateworks Australia’s research since 2014, was the focus for CEDA’s livestreamed event on October 12, 2021.

Australia can chart a 1.5 degree compatible path, here’s how: Event summary

This presentation of findings from our reports on sub-national government and corporate climate action reveals positive momentum – alongside a need to go harder, faster.

The Morrison government is set to finally announce a 2050 net-zero commitment. Here’s a ‘to do’ list for each sector

Helen Rowe

Helen is Lead of Climateworks’ Cities team, working to reduce emissions in Australia’s buildings and transport sectors. Previously, Helen led Climateworks’ transport program, working with government and industry stakeholders to define a common vision and action plan to move the sector to zero emissions.

Corporate action for 1.5 degrees: Best practice for Australian company net zero commitments

Read our news story: Climateworks report shows what net zero best practice means for business and reveals examples of Australian companies getting it right What does it take to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees?

Climateworks report shows what net zero best practice means for business and reveals examples of Australian companies getting it right

State and territory climate action: Leading policies and programs in Australia

All Australian state and territory governments are now committed to net zero emissions by 2050 or earlier. These commitments cover all emissions produced within Australia’s borders.

Australia can capitalise on state and territory net zero momentum to keep the global 1.5 degree goal in play: report

OECD assessment reinforces the benefits of rapid climate action for Australia.

The first since 2018, the OECD’s latest assessment of Australia’s economy echoes Climateworks’ analysis showing how much Australia stands to gain by joining the global shift to net zero – and reinforces the importance of moving now.

Net zero ambition in infrastructure: Western Australia’s draft strategy is a step forward for the sector

The draft strategy, Foundations for a Stronger Tomorrow, represents a significant step forward in aligning state- and nationally-significant infrastructure with net zero emissions.

Indonesia raises their net zero ambition – can they be a leader for climate commitments in Southeast Asia?

Our team in Indonesia is collaborating to support the nation with accelerating its climate agenda.

New system and country leads for Climateworks

Three new leads provide the country perspective or system-wide expertise we need to enable system change for action on climate.

Climateworks Australia submission to Queensland’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Strategy

In July 2021 Climateworks had to opportunity to provide input to Queensland’s new Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Strategy. The submission draws from our Decarbonisation Futures scenario modelling, our Moving to Zero transport report, and a comparison of current Queensland zero-emissions vehicles policy and leading policies inother states and territories.

Good news in climate solutions – June

Read the latest news in climate solutions showing positive progress towards net zero around the globe.

Net zero momentum tracker – energy sector

Australia’s energy sector must accelerate its pace of decarbonisation if Australia is to reach net zero emissions, in line with the global climate goals.

Raising Indonesia’s net zero ambition: the pivotal role of energy systems in setting and reaching a net zero target

In the short time since releasing a net zero by 2070 pledge, the Indonesian government has already recognised that raising ambition further could unlock more opportunities for the nation.

Victorian government takes important steps on emissions reduction

Victoria’s climate strategy and emissions targets, released on 2 May, will create the largest 2030 emissions reduction of any Australian state or territory.

Leaders Summit on Climate: Nations step up commitments, but what does it mean for countries in our region?

Our team discusses takeaways from the Summit for Australia and Indonesia.

Climateworks submission to the Future Fuels Strategy: Discussion Paper ‘Powering Choice’

In April 2021 Climateworks had the opportunity to respond to the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources Future Fuels Strategy: Discussion Paper ‘Powering Choice’.

On the road again: here’s how the states can accelerate Australia’s sputtering electric vehicle transition

Holding focus: Impact report 2020

In 2020, Climateworks was proud to adapt and  ‘hold focus’ despite the extraordinary circumstance of operating amid a global pandemic. We entered 2020 with a newly developed strategy for the transformative decade ahead.

Climateworks submission to the Infrastructure Victoria draft 30-year infrastructure strategy

Climateworks supports Infrastructure Victoria’s recommendations that will strengthen the alignment of infrastructure planning, assessment, investment decisions and delivery with the Climate Change Act 2017, which includes a target of net zero emissions by 2050.

Economic imperative drives Australia’s state and territory action on climate

State governments used stimulus spending to address climate goals – and it’s going to benefit Australia’s emissions bottom line

Scott Morrison has embraced net-zero emissions – now it’s time to walk the talk

The transition will require targeted government spending and specific, forward-thinking policies for each sector. Without this, Australia risks missing the opportunities being seized by our international peers.

Summer watching

For Climateworks, 2020 was the year of the webinar. Like many organisations, we cancelled our events due to COVID-19, replacing them with digital versions.

Anna Skarbek joins panel at Responsible Investment conference.

Climateworks' Anna Skarbek joins Jacki Johnson and Robynne Quiggin and chair Simon O’Connor to discuss ‘A Bold Plan to Reshape Australia’s Financial System.'

Building our future event series – Sustainable finance: Pathways, policy and trends

On Tuesday 8 December 2020 Climateworks and the British High Comission hosted a discussion on pathways to a robust and competitive sustainable finance sector in Australia.

Zali Steggall’s new climate change bill comes just as economic sectors step up

In tracking the momentum to net zero, we’ve seen the importance of clear targets in raising ambition, encouraging innovation and fostering the deployment of known solutions quickly and at scale.

Recover and reduce – Prudent investments to boost the economy and lower emissions

The COVID-19 pandemic is profoundly affecting all Australian jurisdictions and sectors. The economic fallout is ongoing, unresolved, and the full extent of the impacts are unknown.

Climateworks steps up to the STEPtember challenge

Statement on ARENA funding announcement

Stimulating the net zero infrastructure conversation is ‘more relevant than ever’

Climateworks’ Michael Li explains how, six months since Reshaping Infrastructure was released, the work continues to focus the infrastructure sector on how decisions made today will affect long-term emissions reduction opportunities.

Australian superannuation funds on the cusp of climate action: report

Climateworks and the Monash Sustainable Development Institute launch the sixth in a series of assessments undertaken as part of the Net Zero Momentum Tracker initiative.

Summary of the Climateworks Submission to the Australian Government’s Technology Investment Roadmap Discussion Paper

Submission to the Australian Government’s Technology Investment Roadmap Discussion Paper

Climateworks has made a submission to the Australian Government’s Technology Investment Roadmap Discussion Paper. Climateworks welcomes the paper’s recognition of the suite of solutions available to reduce Australian emissions.

Case study: Wyndham city council

Case study: City of Adelaide

Anna Skarbek joins Technology Investment Roadmap Discussion

Climateworks CEO Anna Skarbek joined the ANU Energy Change Institute and Climate Change Institute open public forum on the Australian Government’s 2020 Technology Investment Roadmap discussion paper.

Case Study: Australia Post

Moving to zero

Australia’s first comprehensive guide to reaching zero emissions in the transport sector. Moving to zero: Accelerating the transition to zero-emissions transport is Australia’s first comprehensive guide to reaching zero emissions in the transportation sector.

Statement on Technology Investment Roadmap discussion paper

Green stimulus: an opportunity for economic and climate recovery

Around the world, there has been dynamic discussion around how various economies can recover from the damage of COVID-19.

Case study: Kathmandu

Retailers are realising their important role in reducing Australia’s carbon emissions

Leading Australian retailers are alert to their role in reducing emissions but the sector is not yet making a significant contribution to emissions-reductions efforts.

Scaling up: Impact report 2019

New research supports what is already being felt in Australia and around the world: climate change is happening faster than ever anticipated, bringing with it greater repercussions.

Carbon conversations: Anna Skarbek talks Climateworks’ major report.

On Friday 17 April 2020 Climateworks CEO Anna Skarbek joined Carbon Market Institute's John Connor to talk Decarbonisation Futures – solutions, actions and benchmarks for a net-zero emissions Australia.

Good news in climate solutions – April

Read the latest news in climate solutions showing positive progress towards net zero around the globe.

After the pandemic: how Australia can be a net zero nation by 2050 and stimulate the economy getting there.

On the other side of the pandemic, the stimulus that will be needed to revive the economy provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity for decarbonisation to meet Australia’s international commitments.

Decarbonisation Futures: Solutions, actions and benchmarks for a net zero emissions Australia

Climateworks’ seminal report shows how technologies in each sector can achieve climate goals in Australia when rebuilding the economy to be resilient for the future.

Anna Skarbek joins Centre for Climate and Energy Policy panel: Towards a Long-Term Emissions Strategy for Australia

At an event convened by the Centre for Climate and Energy Policy on February 26, Climateworks' Anna Skarbek joined experts and stakeholders discussing the need for and analytical underpinnings of Australia’s national 2050 emissions strategy.

Issues paper: Reshaping Infrastructure for a net zero emissions future

Infrastructure has a significant, lasting influence on Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions. Around 70% of Australia’s emissions are associated with infrastructure projects, according to the issues paper published in partnership by the Infrastructure Sustainability Council of Australia (ISCA), Climateworks Australia and the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council (ASBEC).

Infrastructure can lay the foundations for Australia’s net zero emissions future

The first step in a broader effort to reshape Australia’s infrastructure agenda

Electric buses can reduce costs, improve air quality and support local industries.

Technology and industry are ready for policy to support electric bus rollout.

Submission to the Government of Western Australia on Climate Change

In December 2019 Climateworks took the opportunity to respond to the Government of Western Australia’s Climate change in Western Australia Issues paper – September 2019.

How to read a marginal abatement cost curve

A marginal abatement cost curve – or MACC – is simple to understand when you break it down.  In this context, ‘abatement’ means ‘reducing’.

Infrastructure

Around 70 per cent of Australia’s emissions can be influenced by infrastructure projects.  The large scale and scope of infrastructure’s influence means a small number of innovative projects can be transformative in enabling Australia’s path to net zero emissions.

Cities

By creating sustainable buildings, transport and infrastructure today, cities can lay the foundations for a net zero emissions future.

High level engagement in our Southeast Asia and Pacific programs

Updates from our International team's work in Southeast Asia and the Pacific

Fleet owners could save money by choosing electric vehicles

Electric vehicles could have a huge impact in accelerating Australia's transition to electric vehicles

Electric vehicle ready local government fleets: increasing uptake and ambition

Transport is one of the fastest growing sources of emissions in Australia. Electric vehicles fuelled by renewable energy can drastically reduce the sector’s emissions.

We can be a carbon-neutral nation by 2050, if we just get on with it

Australia not on track to reach 2030 emissions reduction target but potential is there: report

Australia is not on track to reach 2030 Paris target (but the potential is there)

Tracking progress to net zero emissions

Australia is not on track to reach emissions reduction targets under the Paris Agreement. But opportunities exist in proven technologies across electricity, industry, buildings, land and transport.

Taking the long view

Strong economic growth can be achieved without increasing emissions. A long term approach to avoiding emissions growth is essential to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Climateworks zero emissions study a finalist in prestigious Banksia Awards

Towards fuel efficient, lower emission light vehicles: Submission to the vehicle emissions discussion paper

The transport sector is one of the fastest growing sources of emissions within Australia, increasing by 47.5% since 1990. It also represents one of the most financially attractive emission reduction opportunities across the Australian economy.

Pathways to deep decarbonisation in 2050: how Australia can prosper in a low carbon world

Australia can prosper in a low carbon world. Cost-effective technologies already exist to reach net zero emissions by mid-century. In 2014, as part of the global 2050 Deep Decarbonisation Pathways Project, Climateworks and the Australian National University published ‘Pathways to Deep Decarbonisation by 2050: How Australia can prosper in a low carbon world’.

Global report shows 15 countries’ pathways to a decarbonised economy

New project maps Australia’s shift to net zero emissions by 2050

Climateworks leads call for best practice vehicle emission standards

Climateworks and Australia’s Supply Chain and Logistics Association

Companies cut energy use saving $1.2 billion

Industrial energy efficiency data analysis project (IEEDA)

This series investigates the energy efficiency opportunities available to medium to large industrial energy users. In 2012, Climateworks published the Inputs to the energy savings initiative modelling from the Industrial energy efficiency data analysis project and a summary report Industrial energy efficiency: summary of key findings from the ESI data analysis project.

Industrial sector could cut energy use by 11 per cent

Tracking Australia’s progress on reducing emissions

Enabling government, businesses and the community to see the impact of actions taken to reduce emissions

Geelong community to start planning implementation of Low Carbon Growth Plan for Greater Geelong

New report identifies a range of opportunities, across all sectors, to reduce emissions while continuing to grow the local economy and saving businesses and households money.

Low carbon growth plan for Greater Geelong

The Low Carbon Growth Plan for Greater Geelong identifies a range of greenhouse gas abatement opportunities that can be achieved for the lowest cost within the municipal boundaries of Greater Geelong.

Australians to pay more for delaying action on climate change

Just one year after identifying 54 opportunities to reduce emissions at least cost, Australia has gone backwards, with emissions rising.

New Low Carbon Growth Plan for Australia

The first comprehensive economy-wide Low Carbon Growth Plan for Australia.