$9 million to support the Pacific to meet climate targets

The Australian Government is supporting our Pacific neighbours to respond to climate change, with a $9 million contribution to the Regional Pacific Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) Hub.

Parties to the Paris Agreement are required to set NDCs, which represent their commitment to reducing their own greenhouse gas emissions. NDCs are aligned with the Paris Agreement to limit the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, while pursuing efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees.

The Hub, a Pacific-led initiative, provides the resources and expertise Pacific nations need to help them articulate and meet their emissions reduction commitments under the Paris Agreement.

At the Pacific Islands Countries Climate Change Ministerial Talanoa, Australia announced that this funding will help kick-start a new phase of the Hub, as countries seek to submit new NDCs in 2025.

The Hub has assisted 14 Pacific countries to access climate support, including for investment planning, low-emissions strategy development and emissions reporting, since its inception in 2017.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said the nature of this support was critical to the Pacific at this juncture.

“Climate change is no longer a threat, it’s a reality, and Australia is committed to supporting our closest neighbours to deliver on their ambitious emissions reduction targets and manage investment planning for low emissions development.

“Each step we take to fight climate change is a step back from the brink, and Australia is dedicated to working with our Pacific neighbours to make sure our next steps are the right ones.”

Australia’s latest $9 million contribution will strengthen the region’s collective approach as one Blue Pacific Continent, helping secure the wellbeing of the Pacific people while implementing their NDCs.

The Pacific Community (SPC) will receive the funds for the NDC Hub through a financial arrangement with the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.