Australia beats 2020 emissions reduction target

30 June marked the end of Australia’s Kyoto-era targets and the start of our 2030 Paris Agreement target.

While figures are yet to be finalised, Australia is estimated to have beaten its Kyoto-era target by up to 430 million tonnes - around 80 per cent of a full year’s emissions.

Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor said Australia’s track record of meeting and beating our global commitments is something we should be proud of, and Australians can be confident that we’ll meet and beat our 2030 Paris target.

“Australia has overachieved on our Kyoto-era commitments – this is something all Australians can be proud of,” Minister Taylor said.

“The end of the Kyoto-era and start of Paris commitment is an important milestone in global action to reduce emissions.

“Unlike the Kyoto Protocol, the Paris Agreement includes commitments from all countries and all major emitters, not just developed nations.

“Australia is committed to playing our role to reduce global emissions and we will do this without imposing new costs on households, businesses or the economy.

“The Morrison Government believes the pathway to meaningful impacts on global emissions is through development and deployment of new technologies, not taxes.

“Our Technology Investment Roadmap will play an important role in reducing emissions, creating new jobs and supporting Australia’s COVID19 economic recovery.

“Our commitment is clear: lower prices, keep the lights on, while doing our bit to reduce global emissions without wrecking the economy – and we are seeing results.”

The Morrison Government has a clear plan through our $3.5 billion Climate Solutions Package to continue our strong track record and meet our 2030 Paris commitment.

Since 1990, Australia’s national emissions have declined by 13 per cent and Australia’s emissions per person are at their lowest levels in 30 years.

Australia’s Kyoto-era accounting ends at the end of the financial year. Other countries will finalise accounting for their 2020 targets between now and the end of the calendar year.

Media contact: Minister Taylor's office 02 6277 7120