Leading organisations across various sectors in Australia have issued a joint statement stressing the urgent need for a credible, consistent, and long-term climate and energy policy framework for Australia’s net-zero future.
The joint statement was issued as Australia’s energy and climate ministers prepare for a crucial meeting this week. This coalition, comprising business, industry, environmental advocates, community groups, and more, called for stable policy to attract investment and ensure a just transition to a net-zero emissions future.
According to the statement, Australia’s energy systems are at a critical juncture. The impending retirement of thermal power stations, coupled with growing electricity demands due to industrial electrification and increased use of electric vehicles, necessitates immediate and substantial investments.
The coalition insisted these investments must come from both government and private sectors to upgrade and extend the nation’s energy infrustructures.
“Significant investments are required from and across all sectors, starting now and continuing for decades,” the statement said.
“The commitment of governments, regulators and stakeholders to a credible and consistent energy framework is essential to attract finance at the lowest cost of capital and enable all our sectors to efficiently plan, resource and deliver just and timely transition to net zero emissions.”
The statement said current national emissions and energy targets for 2030 are identified as foundational, but achieving these and more ambitious net-zero future targets will require sustained effort and evidence-based, transparent planning.
A key focus is the Integrated System Plan (ISP), which provides a strategic roadmap for the National Electricity Market. The ISP outlines the need for increased renewable energy, a balanced mix of firming resources, efficient buildings, and smarter transmission networks. The coalition stresses that minimising costs to consumers while ensuring equitable benefits is crucial for maintaining public support during this transition.
The statement also called for swift, predictable assessment processes for new energy projects, ensuring they protect nature and facilitate essential infrastructure.
The coalition includes the Ai Group, Australian Aluminium Council, Australian Conservation Foundation, Australian Council of Social Service, Australian Energy Council, Australian Steel Institute, Carbon Market Institute, Cement Industry Federation, Clean Energy Council, Energy Efficiency Council, Energy Networks Australia, Energy Users’ Association of Australia, Environment Victoria, Investor Group on Climate Change, National Farmers’ Federation, Property Council of Australia, WWF-Australia.
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