Net Zero Unit to drive transport and infrastructure emissions reduction

A Net Zero Unit has been established in the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communication and the Arts, to be led by Ian Porter.

The new unit will identify how the infrastructure portfolio can work across government and with industry to help achieve net zero and improve the resilience of our transport networks and supply chains in the face of increasing extreme weather events.

The unit will support the cross-portfolio Net Zero Taskforce that will advise the Government on ensuring regional Australians benefit from Australia’s transformation to a renewable energy superpower.

Mr Porter brings significant 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.

This builds on important initiatives already underway across the portfolio, including creating a Jet Zero Council to promote sustainable aviation fuels in this country and consulting on fuel efficiency standards for light vehicles to support the National Electric Vehicle Strategy.

This forms part of the Government’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 43 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030 and achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

The unit will help advance the Government’s emissions commitments by connecting government agencies, industry and climate experts to translate the latest research into action, while ensuring climate expertise is embedded into policies and investments.

Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

 “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.

“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.”