Australia’s 2035 Climate Target: Ambitious Plan or Empty Promise?

Australia has unveiled an ambitious new climate target, aiming to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 62% to 70% below 2005 levels by 2035, a significant step toward its net-zero goal by 2050. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, leading the Labour Party, announced the plan, which builds on the nation’s existing commitment to a 43% reduction by 2030.

Albanese will present this target at the United Nations General Assembly next week, signaling Australia’s intent to align with global climate goals under the Paris Agreement, which mandates nations to update their emissions targets every five years. “This is a science-backed, practical target that protects our environment, boosts our economy, and secures jobs for future generations,” Albanese emphasized, highlighting the use of proven technologies to achieve these cuts.

The Climate Change Authority, chaired by Matt Kean, praised the 2035 target as a bold move, claiming it outpaces the ambition of most advanced economies. The European Union, for comparison, is considering a similar 63-70% reduction below 1990 levels. However, the announcement has sparked polarized reactions. Environmental groups, including the Australian Greens, slammed the target as insufficient, with Senator Larissa Waters calling the 62% baseline “appallingly low” and accusing the government of prioritizing coal and gas exports over meaningful climate action.

Australia remains one of the world’s largest exporters of these fossil fuels, a point of contention for critics who argue the target sidesteps the nation’s global emissions impact.

On the other hand, business leaders expressed cautious support but raised concerns about economic implications. Andrew McKellar, chief executive of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, described the target as “ambitious” but stressed the need for energy affordability and security to maintain industry competitiveness. Some business groups warned that exceeding a 70% reduction could jeopardize billions in exports and drive companies offshore.

Meanwhile, the opposition Liberal Party, which is reevaluating its own net-zero by 2050 commitment, dismissed the target as unrealistic. Opposition leader Sussan Ley called it a “fantasy,” arguing the government is unlikely to meet its 2030 goal, let alone the new 2035 target.

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Despite the criticism, the government insists it is on track to achieve its 2030 target, albeit narrowly. Albanese defended the plan as a balanced approach that safeguards both the environment and the economy. However, with environmentalists pushing for deeper cuts and industry demanding affordability, Australia’s 2035 target has ignited a fierce debate about the nation’s climate priorities and its role in the global fight against climate change.

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