This year marks a critical moment: under the Paris Agreement, nations are required to submit new 2035 targets to cut climate pollution. The Albanese Labor Government’s imminent decision on Australia’s 2035 climate target will shape the lives of every Australian. This report provides new, detailed analysis on a scientifically credible, Paris-aligned target for Australia. It finds that net zero by 2035 is the only target available to Australia with a strong chance of contributing to holding global warming below 2°C. 

Key findings

1. Climate change is accelerating, and current global efforts – including Australia’s – are dangerously inadequate.
2. Australians are already living with climate consequences – and the costs are soaring.
3. Australia’s 2035 climate target must be very strong to be science-aligned.
4. A stronger 2035 climate target will keep Australians safer. A weaker target risks more disasters, more damage and more danger.
5. Significant economic and diplomatic opportunities can flow from a strong target.
6. To protect Australians from the most significant risks of the climate crisis, Australia can go beyond domestic action to support global action to substantially reduce climate pollution. 

The report recommends that Australia’s 2035 climate target and Australia's next Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the Paris Agreement:

1. Aims to limit warming as much as possible with the highest probability of success.
2. Is embedded in Australian law.
3. Includes a commitment to phase out fossil fuel use, production, exports and subsidies, including a clear plan with timelines.
4. Is based on genuine and real reductions to climate pollution, including minimising reliance on offsets.