Calls grow as Australia confronts climate credibility gap
The Albanese government is facing renewed pressure from climate advocates to accelerate its phase-out of fossil fuels after Australia endorsed the Belém declaration at Cop30, committing to stronger global action while continuing to support new domestic gas developments. Critics argue that without a rapid shift away from fossil fuel expansion, Australia risks undermining both its international credibility and its long-term climate strategy.
Belém declaration raises expectations
Australia’s signature on the Belém declaration—an agreement urging nations to accelerate the transition from fossil fuels and strengthen measures to limit global heating—triggered immediate scrutiny. Environmental groups, academics, and several climate-policy analysts said the country now carries a heightened responsibility to align domestic actions with the principles of the pledge.
Advocates emphasised that Australia, as a major fossil fuel exporter, plays a disproportionately influential role in shaping global energy markets. They argue that the commitments embedded in the declaration cannot coexist with continued expansion of gas extraction.
Government defends gas development stance
Prime minister Anthony Albanese rejected suggestions that the Labor government must halt all new gas projects to honour the Cop30 commitment. He reiterated the government’s position that gas remains “a crucial transition fuel” within the broader shift toward renewable energy, stressing that Australia needs to maintain supply stability as it phases out coal and scales up clean energy infrastructure.
Labor ministers also pointed to ongoing investments in solar, wind, hydrogen, and grid modernisation as evidence of national progress toward climate goals. They argue that responsible gas development, paired with emissions-reduction mechanisms, can coexist with a net-zero pathway.
Critics say time is running out
Climate scientists and environmental groups strongly disagree. Several organisations said the science is unequivocal: expanding fossil fuel production is incompatible with limiting global heating to 1.5C. They contend that Australia’s reliance on gas risks delaying the necessary structural transformation and weakening the government’s negotiating position in future climate diplomacy.
Campaigners insist that “now is the hour” for Australia to back its global pledges with decisive domestic action, including:
- Halting approval of new gas fields
- Phasing down existing operations faster
- Increasing investment in renewable energy manufacturing
- Enhancing support for communities dependent on fossil-fuel industries
Balancing economic and environmental pressures
The government faces a delicate balancing act. Gas export revenues remain significant, and several regions rely heavily on the sector for employment. At the same time, global markets are shifting rapidly as renewable technologies expand, raising questions about the future competitiveness of long-term gas investments.
Financial analysts warn that Australia risks locking in stranded assets if it continues to back new gas projects in a world moving toward decarbonisation. The growing discrepancy between domestic policy and international climate commitments may also complicate Australia’s efforts to position itself as a leader in clean-energy diplomacy.
The road ahead
As post-Cop30 discussions continue, the government will confront increasing pressure to articulate clearer timelines for phasing out fossil fuels and to demonstrate how new gas approvals fit within the broader climate framework. For advocates, the message is simple: pledges must be matched with action, and the coming years will determine whether Australia can deliver on its commitments.
Newshub Editorial in Oceania – 24 November 2025
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