Australians are already experiencing the impacts of climate change on their health and wellbeing. To address these current and future challenges, the Australian Government has committed to making the issue a national health priority.

The Climate Change Authority’s second annual progress report includes 42 recommendations the Authority considers would enhance the prospects of achieving Australia’s targets, and promote a prosperous and resilient Australia in a world transitioning to net zero emissions.

This briefing explains how the world has changed since last year’s COP27 summit in Egypt. It also explains what Australia must do to successfully co-host COP31 with Pacific nations.

Drawing on new global data and experts and advocates the world over, this report argues for a radical new approach if humanity is to stand any chance at overcoming the catastrophe unfolding before us.

This report calls for significant change to the way communities are engaged in climate adaptation planning. With climate change reshaping lives, culture, and public health in profound ways, this issue has never been more urgent.