This study reveals that Australian boards see climate change as a key strategic and risk issue, but face capacity and resource constraints in responding to the challenge.

This guide is an introductory resource for directors on climate change risk governance. It provides a plain-language introduction to fundamental climate change concepts, and considers this issue in the context of the non-executive directors’ role and duties.

Reflecting on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on board practices and processes, the insights in this report have been drawn from interviews and roundtables with directors and company secretaries, as well as a survey of Australian Institute of Company Directors members.