Australia’s newly announced climate target has drawn sharp criticism from Pacific climate advocates and campaigners, who say the move jeopardises regional survival and undermines Australia’s credibility as it bids to co-host COP31 with Pacific nations.
The Albanese governments updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) pledges a 62–70% emissions reduction by 2035. But it falls short of the 75% cut climate scientists say is needed to limit warming to 1.5°C, and crucially, includes no commitment to phase out fossil fuels.
“Anything less than a 75% cut this decade backed by a plan to phase out coal, oil and gas is not a climate plan — it’s a denial of climate justice,” said Fenton Lutunatabua, Deputy Head of Regions at 350.org.
“The Pacific is already suffering the losses from every fraction of a degree. This so-called ‘sweet spot’ is dangerously out of touch with our survival.”
The announcement comes just days after Australia’s national climate risk assessment warned of “cascading, compounding and concurrent threats” if the 1.5°C threshold is breached, and amid backlash over the government’s decision to extend the North West Shelf gas project until 2070.
“Australia had the chance to begin its COP31 legacy as a true climate leader and did not deliver,” said Jacynta Fa’amau, 350.org Pacific Campaigner.
As a Pacific Islander living in Australia, I’m concerned for both of my homes. Australia will not be spared the consequences of inaction either.”
Shani Tager, 350.org Australia Senior Campaigner, was equally blunt.
“This target is a betrayal of the science and the people. Albanese has capitulated to fossil fuel giants and put us all at greater risk of fire, heatwaves and unlivable conditions.”
