Australia Expected to Lower 2035 Emissions Reduction Target Amid Pacific Push
CANBERRA – The Albanese government is poised to announce a 2035 emissions reduction target that falls short of the 65-75 per cent range previously considered, as it seeks to solidify its relationship with Pacific nations. sources indicate a more “achievable” number is forthcoming, signaling lowered expectations for the target.
This recalibration comes as Australia actively pursues co-hosting the 2026 global climate summit (COP) with Pacific nations, a move viewed as a key demonstration of its commitment to addressing the region’s climate concerns. The joint Australia-Pacific bid enjoys strong support within the 28-country “Western Europe and Others Group” responsible for hosting the summit.
However, Australia’s bid faces a challenge from Türkiye, which is also vying to host the 2026 COP summit. Prime Minister Albanese is scheduled to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in the coming weeks to attempt to resolve the deadlock.
Pacific leaders believe a co-hosted COP summit would provide a crucial platform to highlight the climate crisis impacting their region. Securing the summit would also earn Australia goodwill as it navigates its commitments in the Pacific, effectively serving as an “entry fee” to the region’s trust and cooperation.
David Speers is national political lead and host of Insiders, which airs on ABC TV at 9am on Sunday or on iview.