As a party to the Paris Agreement, the Australian Government has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 26% to 28% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels.64 Prime Minister Scott Morrison has signalled an intention to achieve net zero 'as soon as possible, and preferably by 2050'.65 The Climate Solutions Package, Australia's National Hydrogen Strategy, Future Fuels Strategy (due for release in late 2021), Technology Investment Roadmap and Low Emissions Technology Statement have all been developed to support this national commitment.66 These policies outline the Australian Government's intention to support, develop and use new and emerging low-emissions technologies to reduce emissions, develop new industries and increase productivity.
All state and territory governments have committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050.67 States, territories and local councils are responsible for infrastructure design, delivery and operations. Emissions reduction can be achieved during each of these stages. The private sector also needs to act, as state and territory emissions targets cover all emissions produced within the state, not just by assets that are overseen by the government.
Nationally and across Jurisdictions, emissions reduction targets are informing innovation and reform in relation to infrastructure. As the infrastructure sector influences about 70% of Australia's emissions, it must be a leading enabler and adopter of low-emissions technology.68 It should play a stronger role in meeting Australia's emissions commitments and targets across all levels of government. This is particularly true in the most emissions-intensive infrastructure industries, such as transport and energy, which are prioritised in this Plan.