Canberra Opens Consultation on Net Zero Climate Plan
The ACT Government is inviting the community to help shape Canberra's adaptable Climate Change Strategy, which will guide strong climate action from 2026 to 2035.
Minister for Climate Change, Environment, Energy and Water, Suzanne Orr said climate change is already affecting Canberra and planning now is essential to protect the community, environment and economy into the future.
"Canberra's climate is changing. It is one of the greatest challenges we face, and we must act now to prepare our city and our community for the challenges ahead," Minister Orr said.
"Building a resilient, zero-emissions Territory requires collective action from all of us- Government, households, businesses, industry and community groups.
"This strategy will look different to past approaches because we need a plan that allows us to adapt to new opportunities and challenges in the constantly evolving response to climate change.
"It will be made up of two components- a framework which outlines the vision and principles that will guide our actions, and shorter-term action plans that focus on specific measures to reduce emissions and prepare the ACT for the effects of climate change."
Community consultation is open from 29 January to 18 March 2026, with all ACT residents encouraged to have their say. Feedback will help shape the priorities and actions in the next strategy.
The strategy will respond to the realities of a changing climate in the ACT. By 2050, average temperatures are expected to rise by around 2°C.
"Our community is central to driving climate action. We want to hear what resonates with people, the challenges they see ahead, and the opportunities they believe we should prioritise," Minister Orr said.
"We are already experiencing the impacts of a changing climate, like yesterday's extreme heat. That's why this strategy will focus not only on cutting emissions, but also on helping communities adapt. We need cooler, greener neighbourhoods, climate-ready homes, resilient infrastructure and strong local support networks."
The ACT Government is seeking feedback on how climate change affects daily life, the steps people are already taking to contribute to the challenge, and the challenges they see in taking further action.
This community consultation builds upon the advanced work undertaken last year, with the targeted stakeholder consultation, feeding into the development and design of the public consultation.
"By working together, we can ensure Canberra continues to lead on climate action while remaining a safe, healthy and liveable city for future generations," Minister Orr said.
To have your say on the next ACT Climate Change Strategy, visit the ACT Government's YourSay Conversations website www.yoursayconversations.act.gov.au/climate-change-strategy.
https://www.cmtedd.act.gov.au/open_government/inform/act_government_media_releases/suzanne-orr-mla-media-releases/2026/building-a-resilient,-net-zero-canberra-community-consultation-opens-on-canberras-next-climate-change-strategy
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