At the core of the issue on climate change is the assumption that unconstrained emissions (and therefore warming) are compatible with economies which can grow forever. But, based on the science, this is not possible. Yet this has been the benchmark of economic analysis and the basis for assessment of any actions to solve for climate change. 

Deloitte Access Economics has constructed a view of the Australian economy where inaction, or mis-action, in preventing climate change causes damage to the Australian economy. Climate change is no longer a scenario, but instead becomes the baseline for the economy.

This report provides a basis for a more hopeful and useful debate about climate change – because Australia’s current debate no longer appropriately serves Australians, our economy or our decision makers. The policy choices over the next 2-3 years are the choices that will shape the next 10-20. This is the narrow window we have to choose the change that will prevent the worst consequences of a warming world.