Climate Policy for Suzie Holt – Groom
As the independent member for Groom, I am committed to the well-being of all citizens. I recognise that climate change is one of the defining issues of our time. The scientific consensus is clear: immediate action is required to mitigate the effects of global warming. My climate policy is grounded in science and economic opportunity. It aims not only to reduce carbon emissions but also to promote economic sustainability, resilience and innovation.
Achieving Net-Zero Emissions by 2045
Short-Term Targets (2025-2030):
Phase out fossil fuel subsidies and reallocate funds toward renewable energy development.
Nuclear energy production is not required in Australia and is significantly more expensive than renewables. I do not support nuclear energy production in Australia.
Promote nationwide carbon pricing to provide economic incentives for companies to reduce emissions.
Medium-Term Targets (2030-2035):
Transition to renewable energy sources for electricity by 2035, including increased government investment in solar, wind and hydroelectric.
Invest in emerging technologies such as hydrogen, and encourage private, community and industrial battery storage for base load power.
Long-Term Targets (2035-2045):
Achieve net-zero emissions across all sectors by 2045. This will be achieved through a commitment to efficiency across all sectors, and through the continued and increased use of renewable sources, battery and other energy storage.
Contributing to a thriving, clean economy
A low carbon Australia will have a much better economy
Fact: Renewable energy is by far the cheapest energy. Investing in the zero-carbon economy will create high-quality jobs in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and a sustainable and resilient economy.
When Australia has the cheapest energy, we will secure a competitive advantage over other countries.
I support continued and substantial investment to accelerate the development of clean energy technologies, including research into next-generation renewable energy and storage solutions.
I will prioritise public transportation systems that are electrified and accessible for all citizens, including those in rural and urban areas.
I support setting a goal to transition all new vehicles to zero-emission models by 2035, with government incentives for electric vehicle (EV) and hydrogen vehicle purchases, as well as expanded EV infrastructure.
I support adaptation projects in areas most vulnerable to climate impacts, including evidence-based flood defence, bushfire prevention, and heat mitigation.
I support Australia’s commitment to international climate agreements such as the Paris Agreement, and push for stronger global climate targets.
I support integration of climate change education in school curricula to enhance scientific literacy around climate change.
Businesses across Australia are moving ahead of the government to investment in carbon neutral technology and practices because it makes good business sense. In our own electorate there are examples of this in agricultural technology and clean hydrogen. We do not want our region to be left behind.
Legislation supporting investment in renewable energy would give businesses certainty. Legislation to support carbon neutral practices in agriculture would provide incentives to one of our biggest industries. Support for electric vehicles would revolutionise our transport industry.
If we don’t get the broad policies of climate transition right, businesses will be struggling to be carbon neutral, meaning our economy will lose money. The Business Council of Australia supports a net zero 2050 strategy and it is well-documented that failing to embrace the opportunities of climate action will leave our economy in a bad position. Projects without direction can become expensive white elephants. Businesses need quality policies that support them becoming carbon neutral by 2050 as a priority. A failure to address these issues will continue to worsen natural disasters and water insecurity. To move towards a carbon-neutral economy, businesses need certainty to allow them to further invest in industries of the 21st century rather than those of the past.
Conclusion
My progressive climate policy is designed to help tackle the climate crisis head-on while creating a sustainable and resilient economy. By making bold investments in clean energy, green jobs, and climate resilience, we can address the environmental, social, and economic challenges of today while ensuring that future generations inherit a planet capable of sustaining life.
Let’s take decisive action now, because the future is in our hands.