Christine Milne (Tasmania, Australian Greens) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I move:

That the Senate—

(a) notes that Australia must declare, to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, our Intended Nationally Determined Contributions by March 2015;

(b) acknowledges the comprehensive targets and progress review of the Climate Change Authority which recommends Australia commit to a 30 to 40 per cent reduction below 2000 level emissions by 2025 and a 40 to 60 per cent reduction by 2030; and

(c) urges the Australian Government to not obstruct constructive progress in the Lima Conference of the Parties and set national targets consistent with the Climate Change Authority's recommended range.

Mitch Fifield (Victoria, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Social Services) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Stephen Parry (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute.

Mitch Fifield (Victoria, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Social Services) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Mr Coalition—Mr Coalition? Mr President, you are independent as President.

Opposition senators interjecting—

Stephen Parry (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Order! Thank you, Senators.

Mitch Fifield (Victoria, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Social Services) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The government is committed to reducing Australia's emissions by five per cent below 2000 levels by 2020. This target represents a substantial effort and equates to the US target. Australia is playing its part in an effective international response to climate change through Direct Action, including our $2.5 billion Emissions Reduction Fund, international engagement and our aid program. Unlike many other countries, when we announce a target we meet it. As the government has previously said often, we will be announcing our post-2020 target next year once we have considered what other countries are doing.

I reinforce again your scrupulous independence, Mr President. 'Coalition' was being used in the broader sense of embracing everyone in the chamber.

Stephen Parry (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Thank you, Minister. The question is that the motion moved by Senator Milne be agreed to.