Australia Introduces Mandatory Climate Disclosures and Sustainable Investment Labels

Australia’s government is spearheading major sustainable finance reforms to transition to a net-zero economy. These initiatives include mandatory climate-related financial disclosures, the development of a sustainable finance taxonomy, and investment product labels. The Albanese Government aims to mobilize private capital, modernize financial markets, and ensure transparency and confidence for investors and companies.

The government is pushing for mandatory climate-related financial disclosure requirements for large businesses and financial institutions. These disclosures aim to provide investors with greater transparency and more comparable information about entities’ exposures to climate-related financial risks and opportunities. Reporting requirements are set to begin on January 1, 2025, pending legislative approval.

The Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB) plans to finalize climate disclosure standards by August 2024, while the Australian Auditing and Assurance Board (AUASB) will develop assurance standards. ASIC will guide market compliance and consider the impact on existing reporting obligations.

In partnership with the Australian Sustainable Finance Institute (ASFI), the government is developing a sustainable finance taxonomy to mobilize private capital towards sustainable activities. This taxonomy will include criteria for six priority sectors and ‘do no significant harm’ principles. The initial taxonomy will be available for voluntary use by the end of 2024, covering green and transition activities in sectors like energy, industry, and agriculture.

To address the complexity of the sustainable finance landscape, the government is establishing consistent labels and disclosure requirements for sustainable investment products. Treasury will develop this new regime, with public consultation planned for early 2025. The target for implementation is 2027.

Recognizing the importance of nature-related financial risks and opportunities, the government is encouraging nature-related financial disclosures and developing tools to support voluntary uptake by businesses. The 2024-25 Budget allocated $4.1 million for this initiative, with ASIC monitoring regulatory developments.

Transition plans are crucial for entities aiming to reduce emissions and manage climate risks. Australia’s new climate disclosure regime will include transition plan disclosure requirements starting January 2025. Treasury will publish best practice guidance for these disclosures by the end of 2025.

ASIC’s focus on greenwashing and sustainable finance-related misconduct aims to maintain market integrity. Enhanced supervision and enforcement will support transparency and reduce greenwashing harms. ASIC will continue targeted surveillance and enforcement actions through 2024-25.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers emphasized the significance of these reforms, stating, “Building a net-zero economy that delivers prosperity and security is a defining opportunity for our country and economy. We want to help companies, investors, and the broader community make the most of the energy and net-zero transformation.”

By working closely with stakeholders, the Albanese Government aims to build market structures that support a sustainable, prosperous, and inclusive economy. “We’re confident that these reforms will help deliver a sustainable economy that benefits investors, communities, and our people,” concluded Chalmers.