Climate Change Action Strategy

Summary publication

Climate change is a major risk to sustainable development and is threatening global efforts to eradicate poverty. Addressing the risks of climate change, as well as taking advantage of the opportunities from climate action – such as more climate-resilient economic growth, jobs and technologies – reinforces sustainable development and supports poverty reduction.

The Climate Change Action Strategy (2020-25) launched on 1 November 2019, underpins our climate investments and assists the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) to meet Australia’s climate finance commitments. The Australian Government is working closely with our regional partners by stepping up renewable energy investment and climate and disaster resilience support through our development program.

In recognition of the launch of the strategy, on 1 November 2019, Australia's Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women, Senator the Hon Marise Payne, opened the Australian funded, climate resilient and cyclone-standard classrooms at Banban primary school and the Luganville Market House in Vanuatu. These facilities are a practical example of Australia's commitment to investing in climate change and disaster resilience across the Pacific. DFAT's climate change action strategy outlines this approach in detail.