The Federal Government announced today that it has set up a unit within the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communication and the Arts dedicated to identifying ways the portfolio can help achieve net-zero carbon emissions.
Known as the Net Zero Unit, the unit will be led by Climateworks' Head of Program Delivery Ian Porter.
“Achieving our Government’s emissions reduction targets on the path to net zero by 2050 will require concerted action to drive emissions lower across the transport sector," said Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King.
“We are already helping to achieve this by increasing the uptake of electric vehicles, considering fuel efficiency standards, improving consumer information, promoting alternative aviation fuels and other technologies, and engaging with international partners to reduce shipping emissions.
“Ian Porter brings a wealth of experience that will support the new Net Zero Unit’s critical work to take our transport and infrastructure climate change policy, research and engagement to the next level.
“I look forward to continuing to work closely with my department as we facilitate a cleaner, greener era for Australia’s transport and infrastructure sectors.”
The department said the Net Zero Unit would build on initiatives already underway including creating a Jet Zero Council to promote sustainable aviation fuels.
The ALP government has made a commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 43% below 2005 levels by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.