The Australian Government has shared its fourth Annual Climate Change Statement. It highlights the strides we’ve made toward reaching net zero emissions and details our climate actions as we look toward 2025.
2025 is shaping up to be a crucial year for climate initiatives in Australia. The government has:
- set a bold emissions reduction goal of 62-70% below 2005 levels by 2035,
- introduced the Net Zero Plan alongside six sector-specific plans to reduce carbon footprints,
- published the National Climate Risk Assessment and the National Adaptation Plan to tackle climate impacts.
This year, total emissions fell by 10 million tons of CO2-e, representing a 2.2% decrease. Compared to 2005, emissions are now down by 29%. In terms of renewable energy, over 40% of the electricity from Australia’s two major grids now comes from renewable sources, a significant jump from just 13% in 2015.
Other key developments include:
- More than 135,000 batteries installed through the Cheaper Home Batteries Program, helping reduce energy costs for households and businesses.
- A 7% drop in net emissions from the biggest emitting facilities in 2023-24, following reforms to the Safeguard Mechanism.
- Electric vehicles (EVs) accounted for 12.7% of new light vehicle sales from January to September 2025, up from 9.5% during the same period in 2024. The number of available EV models grew from 104 to 153 within a year.
The statement also addresses recommendations from the Climate Change Authority made in its 2025 Annual Progress Report, showing a responsive and proactive government commitment.
With climate change being a top concern worldwide, Australia’s progress is encouraging. According to a 2023 survey by the Australian Climate Council, over 70% of Australians support stronger climate policies. This public backing is essential for sustained climate action.
As we continue on this path, it’s clear that collaboration among governments, businesses, and citizens remains vital. Australia’s journey toward net zero not only showcases our potential but sends a message to the world about the importance of tackling climate change together.
For more in-depth information, you can check the full report released by the Australian Government here.
