The Minns Labor Government is making another major step in delivering on its election promise to take strong action on climate change with the launch of the Net Zero Commission.
The independent, expert Commission will play a crucial role in monitoring, reviewing and reporting on the state’s progress towards emissions reduction targets established under the landmark Climate Change (Net Zero Future) Act 2023.
The targets include a 50 per cent reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, a 70 per cent reduction by 2035, and net zero emissions by 2050.
The Net Zero Commission will fulfil several key functions including:
- monitoring whole-of-economy progress towards the emissions reduction targets and adaptation objectives;
- providing independent, expert advice on opportunities for NSW to effectively address climate change;
- educate and inform the NSW Government, businesses, organisations, and individuals on ways to promote action to address climate change.
The appointed Chair and Commissioners bring an impressive range of skills, qualifications and experience spanning climate science, economics and finance, technology and engineering, public administration and the interests of Aboriginal and rural, regional and remote communities.
Net Zero Commission Chair:
Dr Paul Grimes PSM
Net Zero Commissioners:
- Ms Maria Atkinson AM
- Mr Oliver Costello
- Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte
- Professor Frank Jotzo
- Ms Katerina Kimmorley
- Ms Meg McDonald
- Professor Andy Pitman AO
The Commission includes NSW Chief Scientist, Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte, as an ex-officio member to provide whole-of-government scientific advice.
The Commission will be directly accountable to NSW Parliament through the recently established Parliamentary Joint Standing Committee on Net Zero Future. The Commission is required to prepare annual reports on the state’s progress and to consult with the future NSW Agriculture Commissioner as part of this process.
Quote attributable to Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe:
"I'm thrilled to announce the appointment of these exceptional, eminent individuals to lead the Net Zero Commission. Their appointments demonstrate the Minns Labor Government’s unwavering commitment to securing a sustainable and thriving future for NSW's people, economy, and environment.
“The strong, independent Net Zero Commission will provide us with expert assessments of our progress in achieving our net zero goals and adapting to our changing climate.
"The Commission will consider all perspectives and help bring government, business and community along the journey towards our ambitious net zero goals."