The Green Building Council of Australia has welcomed the NSW Government’s establishment of the Net Zero Commission, which it says is a major step forward in addressing climate change.

The independent, expert body has been tasked with monitoring, reviewing, and reporting on NSW’s progress towards the ambitious emissions reduction targets set under the Climate Change (Net Zero Future) Act 2023.

The targets include a 50 per cent reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, a 70 per cent reduction by 2035, and net zero emissions by 2050.

The Net Zero Commission will play a pivotal role in ensuring these targets are met through its comprehensive functions, which include monitoring the state’s progress, providing expert advice, and promoting climate action across all sectors of society.

Davina Rooney, CEO of GBCA, commended the Government’s commitment and the expertise represented within the Commission.

“The launch of the Net Zero Commission is a significant step forward in our collective efforts to combat climate change,” Ms Rooney said.

“We are particularly pleased to see the inclusion of individuals with extensive building and sustainability experience, such as Maria Atkinson AM, GBCA’s founding CEO. Her appointment ensures that the built environment will be well-represented in the Commission’s deliberations.”

GBCA looks forward to supporting the Net Zero Commission’s efforts and working collaboratively to ensure that NSW meets its climate targets and sets a benchmark for sustainable practices nationwide.

Net Zero Commission Chair:

• Dr Paul Grimes PSM

Net Zero Commissioners:

• Ms Maria Atkinson AM
• Mr Oliver Costello
• Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte
• Professor Frank Jotzo
• Ms Katerina Kimmorley
• Ms Meg McDonald
• Professor Andy Pitman AO

  Ex-officio member:

• Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte (NSW Chief Scientist)