The illustrious path

A newly established Net Zero Unit will work across government and industry to help achieve net zero emissions and improve the resilience of transport networks and supply chains.

Led by Ian Porter, it will support the cross-portfolio Net Zero Taskforce that will advise the Government on ensuring regional Australians benefit from Australia’s transformation to a renewable energy superpower.

Porter brings significant experience in climate change, energy and sustainability policy as well as working across government, public service, consulting and the not-for-profit sector –including heading up program delivery for Climateworks.

This builds on initiatives already underway across the portfolio, including creating a Jet Zero Council to promote sustainable aviation fuels in this country and consulting on fuel efficiency standards for light vehicles to support the National Electric Vehicle Strategy.

It also forms part of the Government’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 43 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030 and achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

The unit aims to advance the Government’s emissions commitments by connecting government agencies, industry and climate experts to translate the latest research into action, while ensuring climate expertise is embedded into policies and investments.

Minister Catherine King said to achieve Net Zero by 2050 will require concerted action to drive emissions lower across the transport sector. She noted an increase in the uptake of electric vehicles.

Climateworks reported that state and territory governments have an implied combined zero emission vehicle sales target of 46 per cent by 2030.

King also mentioned consideration towards fuel efficiency and promoting other technologies is helping to achieve Net Zero.

However, we would also need international cooperation, though, to realise tremendous change especially when it comes to shipping. And then there’s the annual average spending on physical assets which one report estimated to be in the ballpark of nine trillion dollars to achieve the 2050 target.

So, how is Australia going on the decarbonisation front?

In terms of overall emissions reduction targets, according to Climateworks, the Federal Government’s commitment to reduce 2030 emissions to 43 per cent below 2005 levels and achieve net zero emissions by 2050, brings it in step with 2021’s states and territories’ targets (with an implied 37–42 per cent reduction below 2005 emissions by 2030, and all committed to net zero).

Outside of transport, other key areas such as land emissions also need attention which would come in the form of incentives and plans for a

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