Government sets up special net-zero unit to tackle transport emissions

The Federal Government has set up a dedicated Net-Zero Unit to drive down emissions from the transport and infrastructure sectors.

The new unit, which is part of the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communication and the Arts, has been created with the aim of identifying how the Department can work across government and with industry to help achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

It will also look at how to improve the resilience of our transport networks and supply chains in the face of increasing extreme weather events.

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The unit will be headed up by Ian Porter, who has years of experience in climate change, energy and sustainability policy, as well as working across government, public service, consulting and the not-for-profit sector – including most recently heading up program delivery for Climateworks.

According to the Department, it will "help advance the Government’s emissions commitments by connecting government agencies, industry and climate experts to put the latest research into action, while ensuring climate expertise is embedded into policies and investments".

The move follows work already underway on consulting on fuel-efficiency standards as part of a National Electric Vehicle Strategy.

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“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 Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister 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."

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Today's news was welcomed by bodies such as the Australian Automotive Dealers' Association (AADA), which said the Government was finally showing initiative and advancing coordination towards net-zero.

“Dealers support an ambitious, but achievable transition to lower emissions and electrification. Franchised new car Dealers work closely with their Manufacturers in developing inventory which reflects market preferences, and as this preference transitions to EVs our members will respond to the market,” said CEO James Voortman.

“We look forward to working closely with the Net Zero Unit to ensure the voice of Australia’s more than 3,000 automotive Dealers and their 59,000 employees are taken into account."