In late 2024, every Australian state and territory government had set targets to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 or sooner, with most outlining interim goals to accelerate progress. Combined, these state and territory targets add up to an estimated 40–44 per cent reduction in Australia’s emissions from 2005 levels by 2030, putting Australia’s legislated 2030 national emissions target of 43 per cent within reach – provided state and territory governments deliver on their targets.
The report finds that these subnational governments are crucial in driving the transition to a low-carbon economy and highlights leading policies in sectors like electricity, transport, buildings, industry, resources, and agriculture. It recommends further collaboration between federal and state/territory governments to strengthen climate action, achieve current targets, and align with the 1.5°C emissions reduction pathway.
The report assesses subnational progress across six key sectors: electricity, transport, buildings, industry, resources & agriculture. For each sector, goals are assessed against progress and significant initiatives highlighted via case study.
