Australia, one of the world’s biggest polluters per capita, will aim to cut its carbon emissions by at least 62 per cent compared to 2005 levels over the next decade. The nation, which has faced global criticism for its continued reliance on fossil fuels, had previously pledged to reduce greenhouse gases by 43 per cent by 2030.

A landmark risk assessment commissioned by the government this week warned Australia faced a future of increasingly extreme weather conditions as a result of man-made climate change. Setting a target to reduce emissions from 2005 levels is part of Australia’s obligation under the Paris Climate Agreement.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the new target is in line with an emission reduction benchmark of between 62 per cent and 70 per cent that was recommended by the Climate Change Authority.