Statement from The Climate Reality Project President and CEO Phyllis Cuttino on the Australia Climate Change Legislation 

“Yesterday, Australia enacted historic climate change legislation, which will mandate 43% emissions reductions below 2005 levels by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050. As one of the first pieces of legislation introduced by the new Labor government, Australia is sending a clear message to the world: it is time to act on climate. 

“This legislation, passed on the heels of the US Inflation Reduction Act, is a welcome and much-needed move to address the climate crisis. I want to acknowledge the many Climate Reality Leaders who worked tirelessly to advocate for meaningful legislation to address the climate crisis, including Climate Reality Leaders Zali Steggall OAM and Zaneta Mascharenhas who were successfully elected to the Australian legislature. Their work demonstrates that by electing officials who understand the threat of climate change, we can make a real difference in our fight to protect the health and safety of our communities. 

“This is an important step in our efforts to address the climate crisis, but it is only the beginning. Other countries – particularly those among the G20 – must join the US and Australia in passing meaningful climate legislation. And as we turn our attention to COP27, Australia should sign the Global Methane Pledge and commit to reducing methane emissions by 30% by 2030. For more information on The Climate Reality Project Australia’s work, visit www.climatereality.org.au.”