A Net Zero Authority is long overdue, and the Clean Energy Council is pleased to see this vital piece of long-term planning be put into action as part of the upcoming Federal Budget.
Today's announcement by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen honours the commitment made in 2022 when Australia became a signatory to the United Nations Just Transition Declaration.
The Clean Energy Council and its members have long advocated for a Net Zero Authority as part of a just transition. The authority will be an essential building block as part of a Renewable Energy Superpower Masterplan, which the Clean Energy Council is advocating for within next week's budget.
"A Net Zero Authority will safeguard worker support, ensure regional employment and enrich education in the sector and beyond," said Clean Energy Council Chief Executive, Kane Thornton.
"A Net Zero Authority is a vital piece of the puzzle as we shift towards a cleaner, more prosperous economic future for all Australians.
"To achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, Australia will require critical transformations over three decades, and establishing a Net Zero Authority will allow Australians to work toward a cleaner future.
"The clean energy transition can be transformative for Australia's regional communities, providing low-cost, renewable energy to consumers and long-term employment pathways in the clean energy sector.
"A Net Zero Authority with dedicated funding and a long-term mandate will ensure the appropriate level of coordination, durability, and leadership necessary to achieve a genuinely just energy transition."
ENDS
For more information or to arrange an interview, contact:
Jane Aubrey
Clean Energy Council Public Affairs Manager
[email protected]
+61 409 470 683
