The Western Australian Government has announced that it will introduce climate change legislation in 2023, providing a framework for the State’s climate change response and giving industry, business and investors certainty and stability.
Western Australia will establish a framework for responsible emissions reductions to meet the state’s goal of net zero by 2050. It will also formalise the aim to reduce Western Australia’s government emissions by 80 per cent below 2020 levels by 2030.
The legislation will create statutory requirements for the State Government to set interim emission reduction targets and develop strategies to adapt to the impacts of climate change.
It means Western Australia will have clear and necessary policies to reduce emissions, helping to mobilise private sector capital for the net zero transition and enhance climate resilience.
The legislation will ensure accountability and transparency, requiring the Western Australia Minister for Climate Action to report annually to Parliament on the state’s net emissions and progress towards reduction targets.
Western Australia Climate Action Minister, Reece Whitby, said the legislation will help accelerate the state’s transition to net zero emissions in a responsible and achievable way.
“Legislation sends a strong signal about the priorities and leadership of our Government. This includes our commitment to achieving an 80 per cent reduction in State Government emissions by 2030,” Mr Whitby said.
“This will help unlock critical investment in clean energy infrastructure and technologies, ultimately reducing costs for businesses.”
Mr Whitby said a new adaptation strategy will be released in 2023 to help enhance the state’s climate resilience and ensure adaptation is reflected in Government decision-making.
