Recently, our collective efforts paid off. The Senate approved legislation to establish the Net Zero Economy Authority, a landmark achievement. This Authority will ensure the climate transition is fair for workers in impacted industries and help identify new opportunities for climate jobs.
The climate crisis demands urgent, transformative action. However, as we reshape our society and economy to meet this challenge, we must ensure no community is left behind. That’s why we joined forces with trade unions, regional community organisations, and the climate movement to campaign for a government agency dedicated to guiding a fair and just climate transition.
Why the Net Zero Economy Authority Matters
The climate transition isn’t just about reducing emissions—it’s about creating a future that works for everyone. Workers in industries like coal, gas, and manufacturing face uncertainty as the economy shifts. Without a coordinated, government-led approach, these communities risk being left behind.
The Net Zero Economy Authority addresses this challenge. Specifically, it will:
- Support workers in transitioning industries by identifying new job opportunities and providing retraining programs.
- Ensure communities dependent on fossil fuel industries thrive in a clean economy, rather than being abandoned.
- Coordinate investment in climate solutions that benefit everyday people, not just big business.
This step is crucial for a just transition, but it’s only the beginning. The Authority provides the infrastructure we need to care for communities while tackling the climate crisis at the required scale and speed.
How We Won This Victory
Winning the Net Zero Economy Authority took collective power. Young people, local communities, climate advocates, and the trade union movement all played a role. Over the past year, we:
- Surveyed dozens of young people in transitioning communities to understand their needs.
- Brought their stories to Parliament through delegations and policy submissions.
- Attended Senate committee hearings to advocate for the legislation.
These efforts, combined with the work of our allies, delivered real change. The Authority proves that when we unite, we can win transformative policies that benefit everyone.
The Bigger Picture: Renew Australia for All
While the Net Zero Economy Authority is a significant win, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. To truly tackle the climate crisis, the government must play an active role in coordinating the transition and investing in climate solutions that prioritise people over profit.
That’s why we’ve joined a coalition of over 40 organisations—spanning the climate, union, social sector, multicultural, and First Nations movements—on the Renew Australia for All campaign. This campaign aims to win a historic climate solutions package that delivers real benefits for everyday people.
Our Vision for Renew Australia
The Renew Australia for All campaign is built on the belief that the transition to a clean economy must be fair, inclusive, and transformative. We’re fighting for:
- Good Jobs in Climate-Safe Industries: Workers in transitioning industries should have access to secure, well-paid jobs in renewable energy, manufacturing, and other climate-safe sectors.
- Affordable, Clean Energy for All: Upgrading homes and communities with solar, wind, and batteries will cut energy bills and reduce emissions.
- Resilient Communities: We must prepare communities to adapt to climate impacts, from heatwaves to floods.
- First Nations Justice: First Nations communities must lead and benefit from the transition, with land rights and self-determination at the core.
The Net Zero Economy Authority is a critical foundation for this vision. It shows that when we unite across movements, we can build the power needed to win transformative change.
What’s Next?
The establishment of the Net Zero Economy Authority is a win worth celebrating, but our work is far from over. We’re pushing for policies like the Climate Jobs Guarantee, which ensures every worker has access to a good job in the clean economy. Additionally, through the Renew Australia for All campaign, we’re fighting for a future where everyone benefits from the opportunities of a clean energy transition.
This is our moment to act. If you’re ready to build a future that works for everyone, join us. Together, we can win the transformative change our generation deserves.
Let’s renew Australia for all.