Australia Warns Of Rising Climate Risks And Sets 2035 Target

Post by : Mumtaaz Qadiri

Australia’s Climate Change Minister, Chris Bowen, has called on the federal government to set a strong 2035 emissions reduction target. He released a national climate risk assessment that shows no Australian community will be safe from the worsening impacts of climate change. Bowen emphasized that acting now is cheaper than ignoring the problem.

National Climate Risk Assessment Released

The national climate risk assessment provides a detailed look at how climate change will affect Australians socially, economically, and environmentally. It is the first of its kind in Australia and gives a clear picture of the risks posed by rising temperatures, extreme weather, and other climate hazards. Along with the assessment, the government released a national adaptation framework to help communities prepare for a changing climate.

Impact Of Heatwaves, Droughts, And Floods

The report, led by the Australian Climate Service, models the effects of climate hazards under three global heating scenarios: above 1.5°C, 2°C, and 3°C. Australia has already warmed by 1.5°C. The findings show that heat-related deaths could rise sharply under extreme warming, with Sydney seeing a 444% increase and Darwin a 423% increase under a 3°C scenario.

Coastal Communities At Risk

Rising sea levels are a major concern for Australia’s coastal communities. By 2050, around 1.5 million people living near the coast could be at risk from flooding, erosion, and inundation. By 2090, this number may rise to more than 3 million. The report highlights the urgent need for planning and action to protect vulnerable coastal areas.

Economic Costs Of Climate Change

The report also estimates the economic impact of climate disasters. Direct costs from floods, bushfires, storms, and cyclones could reach $40 billion annually by 2050, even if global temperatures increase by only 1.5°C. Bowen stressed that these numbers show the real financial risk of failing to act on climate change.

Confronting Findings And Delayed Release

Bowen described the report’s findings as “confronting” and said the government must be honest with Australians about the scale of the problem. The release had been delayed, prompting criticism that the government was trying to hide the results. Environmental groups, scientists, and social service organizations quickly pointed to the report as proof that Australia must aim for a 2035 emissions reduction target above 75%.

Federal Cabinet To Set 2035 Target

The federal cabinet is expected to approve the 2035 emissions reduction target soon, following advice from the Climate Change Authority. Preliminary recommendations suggested a target between 65% and 75%. Bowen acknowledged the target will be controversial—some will think it too high, others too low—but he expressed confidence the government would set an ambitious and achievable goal.

Cost Of Inaction Vs Cost Of Action

Bowen highlighted that every Australian community will face the consequences of climate change. He reminded the public that while the political debate focuses on the cost of taking action, the cost of inaction—both financially and socially—will always be higher. The report reinforces the urgency of decisive climate policies.

Global Challenges And Momentum

Bowen noted that global progress toward net-zero emissions has slowed, mentioning the US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement under Donald Trump and other countries moderating their targets. Despite these global headwinds, he stressed that Australia must continue its efforts to fight climate change, as science and economics make clear that action is necessary.

Balancing Fossil Fuels And Green Energy

The Albanese government’s commitment to climate action has been questioned after approving an extension of Woodside’s North West Shelf gas project to 2070, which environmentalists have called a “carbon bomb.” Bowen defended this decision as part of the transition to green energy, while reaffirming the government’s seriousness in tackling climate change.

Reactions From Climate Groups

The report drew strong reactions from environmental groups and scientists. Amanda McKenzie, CEO of the Climate Council, called the findings “terrifying.” Paul Sinclair from the Australian Conservation Foundation described the report as a “wake-up call” for the government. Greens leader Larissa Waters said the findings were “chilling” and warned that a 65% target would still leave Australians exposed to extreme heat, flooding, crop failures, fires, and coral reef destruction.

Urgency For Science-Based Targets

Waters stressed that failing to set a strong, science-based emissions target would signal the government is prioritizing coal and gas profits over community safety and environmental protection. The Greens and other crossbenchers have urged the government to act decisively, highlighting the importance of an ambitious 2035 goal.

Parliamentary Inquiry And Scrutiny

The climate risk assessment will be examined at a parliamentary inquiry. The inquiry was launched amid frustration over delays in the report’s release. The inquiry aims to ensure government policies are informed by scientific evidence and to hold authorities accountable for implementing strong climate actions.

Preparing Communities For Climate Change

Alongside emissions targets, the government’s national adaptation framework provides guidance to help communities prepare for the impacts of climate change. It addresses risks from extreme heat, flooding, and other natural disasters. The framework is a key tool for local governments, businesses, and residents to plan and protect vulnerable areas.

A Clear Message On Climate Action

Overall, Bowen’s message is clear: climate change affects every Australian, and the risks will grow if action is delayed. The report, the adaptation framework, and the 2035 target aim to ensure that Australia mitigates the worst effects, protects communities, and transitions to a more sustainable economy.

Australia’s national climate risk assessment paints a stark picture of rising dangers from heatwaves, floods, storms, and rising seas. The government’s upcoming 2035 emissions target is a crucial step in responding to these challenges. By combining strong climate goals with practical adaptation strategies, Australia aims to protect its people, economy, and environment from the worsening impacts of climate change. The report serves as a reminder that the cost of acting now will always be lower than the cost of inaction.

Climate Risk Report, Australia Emissions Target, Heatwave Flood Risks