Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water

Senator Ananda-Rajah questioned the necessity of the report, arguing that the severity of the climate emergency was already evident through events like coral bleaching and flooding. Ananda-Rajah attributed the current crisis to the failure of previous governments to pass the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme in 2009. Ananda-Rajah highlighted the government's progress on renewable energy targets, electric vehicle uptake, and the safeguard mechanism as evidence of effective climate action.

Senator Hodgins-May urged the immediate release of the report, citing the direct impacts of climate change on coastal communities and farmers. Hodgins-May described recent observations of mass coral bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef and argued that transparency was a fundamental democratic principle. Hodgins-May called for a bold 2035 emissions target and an end to new coal and gas approvals, stating that decisions should be grounded in science rather than fossil fuel interests.

Senator Whiteaker stated that the final stage of the assessment was advanced and subject to confidential cabinet processes, having received over 180 submissions. Whiteaker contrasted the government's legislative targets and investments in reef protection with the Coalition's internal divisions over net zero commitments. Whiteaker argued that the government was taking real action through emissions reduction laws and marine protection funding, rather than delaying or grandstanding.

Senator Payman supported the motion, emphasising the threat to Ningaloo Reef and local economies in Western Australia. Payman argued that residents deserved to know if government plans would protect these ecosystems from bleaching and biodiversity loss. Payman called for transparency and honesty, stating that keeping the report secret fuelled suspicion and hindered effective protection of natural wonders.

Senator Faruqi described the withheld report as confronting and argued that the government was hiding the full extent of climate impacts. Faruqi linked the secrecy to the government's approval of coal and gas projects, suggesting a conflict between climate safety and corporate profits. Faruqi called for a 2035 net zero target and a phase-out of fossil fuels to ensure the safety of people and the planet.

Senator McKim criticised the government for approving numerous coal and gas projects during its first term and weakening environmental laws. McKim argued that the government was turbocharging climate problems while keeping risk assessments secret. McKim rejected claims that the government was taking climate change seriously, citing continued subsidies for fossil fuels and land clearing as evidence of inadequate action.