2025-07-16
The Greens are demanding the government immediately release the final report of the National Climate Risk Assessment in the wake of yesterday’s Pabai v Commonwealth decision, where the Federal Court acknowledged the devastating climate impacts facing Torres Strait Islander communities — but disappointingly found the government had no legal duty of care.
The second phase of the National Climate Risk Assessment was due to be completed in 2024 to inform Australia’s upcoming National Adaptation Plan, yet the government has failed to release the final report or explain the delay, with its own website stating updates should have been given throughout 2024.
This follows the government;s refusal to release a separate 2023 report by the Office of National Intelligence on climate change and national security, claiming it is classified.
Lines attributable to Australian Greens Assistant Spokesperson for Climate Change and Energy, Senator Steph Hodgins-May
"This vital report identifies the most pressing climate risks facing our country, and it’s nowhere to be seen.
"While the waves are literally lapping at the doors of our Torres Strait Island family, the government is withholding crucial information needed to respond to the urgent threats to their livelihoods, homes and culture..
“The government has both the power and the responsibility to protect climate vulnerable communities, but how can they do that if the climate risk report is being kept from the very people it should be protecting?
"Australians, especially Torres Straight Islander and Aboriginal communities, deserve the truth. They deserve to know what the climate risks are, and what their government is doing about them.
"With Parliament returning next week, our message to the government is simple: show us this report, and work with us on real, urgent climate action for current and future generations."