EJA welcomes the opportunity to provide input to the Special Rapporteur on climate change regarding fossil fuel-based economy and human rights. Australia is a major player in the global fossil fuel industry. It is the world’s second-largest exporter of fossil fuel-related CO₂ emissions. While the federal government has committed to net zero emissions by 2050, it continues to approve and support new fossil fuel projects. This locks in polluting infrastructure for decades to come and undermines international climate goals.

Australia’s climate has already warmed by 1.51°C since 1910. We are already seeing serious impacts from climate change, which threaten the human rights of all Australians, including:

• The right to life
• The right to health
• The right to a healthy environment
• The right to culture
• The best interests of the child

Recommendations

Australia needs a federal transition authority with a legislative mandate to ensure a structured, equitable shift away from fossil fuels. This is essential to avoid an unjust transition, where vulnerable communities—including coal-dependent regions, Traditional Owners, and low-income households—carry the costs, while fossil fuel companies continue to benefit from weak regulation and public subsidies.