500 businesses in two weeks: business pressure mounts for 75% climate target
Business for 75
Australia’s business community is turning up the heat on Canberra as the Government prepares to set its 2035 climate target.
In just two weeks, more than 500 companies from tech giants to startups have signed the Business for 75 campaign, calling for a 75% reduction in emissions by 2035.
New modelling from Deloitte Access Economics shows what’s at stake:
- 75% cut by 2035: adds $370 billion to GDP, supports 69,000 extra jobs each year, and generates $190 billion in additional export revenue by 2050.
- 65% cut by 2035: weaker exports, slower innovation, and a costlier path to net zero.
Australia’s biggest companies are lining up behind the target, including Atlassian, Canva, Ikea, Unilever, Volvo, Bank Australia, Fortescue, Intrepid Travel and Ben & Jerry’s.
“Every business that signs on matters. From global giants to small startups, each company adds weight to the call for a 75% target and shows that strong climate action isn’t just good for the planet, it’s good for jobs, innovation and investment. Together, Australia’s businesses are sending a clear signal that we’re ready to lead in the industries of tomorrow,” said Future Group CEO Simon Sheikh.
The coalition is growing fast, with startups, investors and major employers signing on daily via www.businessfor75.com.au.
About Future Group
Future Group is a superannuation-focused company leading the investment movement to advocate and campaign for a future worth retiring into, with over 415,000 members and $17 billion in funds under management and advice. Find out more at www.futuregroup.com.au
About Business for Business for 75 is coalition of business leaders calling on the Australian Government to commit to an emissions reduction target of at least 75% by 2035, (from 2005 levels). This campaign is powered by Future Group. Modelling3 quoted in this media release can be sourced from the website: www.businessfor75.com.au
Additional Quotes
Unilever Australia Chief Executive Nick Bangs:
“Australia’s food and grocery sector is the third-largest industrial energy user in the country and has a critical role to play in the energy transition. At Unilever Australia, we’re transforming how we manufacture—from switching to renewable electricity to making our operations more efficient. But to scale these efforts, we need strong government leadership. That’s why we support Business for 75 and urge the Australian Government to commit to ambitious, science-based climate targets. Clear policy direction will empower manufacturers to invest, innovate, and accelerate the shift towards a low-carbon economy.”
Atlassian Chief Sustainability Officer Jessica Hyman:
“Atlassian was founded on the belief that no challenge can be solved alone. Building a more resilient future requires all of us—business, government, and communities—working together. That’s why we’re backing Australia in setting a science-aligned target of at least 75% emissions reduction by 2035.
“Achieving this target will unlock new industries, create jobs, drive innovation, and build a stable market for long-term renewable energy investment—supporting businesses across Australia, including Atlassian, in reaching their Net Zero goals.
“Through our ongoing Net Zero efforts, Atlassian is committed to partnering across sectors to make this ambition a reality. Together, let’s rally behind a bold goal that puts Australia on the front foot for decades to come.”
IKEA, Australia and New Zealand Mirja Viinanen, CEO and Chief Sustainability Officer
“IKEA is rapidly decarbonising, investing in circularity, and proving that sustainability and commercial success go hand in hand. But we can’t get to where we need too it alone. We’re ready to work alongside other businesses and government to scale up and move fast. From our experience, setting ambitious goals has driven momentum that simply couldn’t be achieved without aiming high. That’s why we urge the Australian Government to adopt the most ambitious, science-aligned target possible—because bold targets inspire bold action, and together, we can build a better future for the many people.”
Bank Australia Managing Director Damien Walsh:
"We signed onto Business for 75 because we believe Australia’s future -- and the future of our members -- depends on strong, credible climate action.
"As a customer-owned bank, our purpose is to create positive impact and value for people and the planet. A minimum 75% reduction target by 2035 is both achievable and necessary to protect communities from climate risk and to seize the opportunities of the clean economy."
"The choices we make today will decide the kind of Australia we pass on. We choose an Australia powered by clean energy and opportunity."
"The clean economy is the growth story of our time. Australia needs the right target to lead it."
"Our customers expect us to back solutions that safeguard the value of their savings and create new opportunities for all Australians. A strong 2035 target does exactly that. It's necessary, achievable and will pay dividends for decades to come."
Culture Amp CTO & Co-Founder Doug English:
“Culture Amp is proud to support the Business for 75% campaign, joining Australian organizations and their leaders in advocating for a commitment to a +75% emissions reduction target by 2035 in Australia. This initiative resonates deeply with Culture Amp's mission and vision, aligning our commitment to building a more equitable, sustainable future for all.”
Squadron Energy Chief Executive Rob Wheals:
“To achieve great things, we need ambitious goals, and an ambitious emissions reduction target has the potential to unlock investment and drive long-term economic growth, particularly for regional Australia.
“This modelling confirms that climate leadership is not just good policy, it’s good business. The opportunity is ours to seize.”
Volvo Group Australia Chief Executive Martin Merrick:
“Australian businesses know that a strong target will provide the clarity, credibility and confidence needed to attract large-scale investment in building new renewable energy generation, new green industries and new technologies.
“A strong target will enable Australia to transition away from fossil fuels towards a more prosperous future, sending a clear signal to our global trading partners that Australia is not only committed to, but also capable of being a competitive player in the global green economy.
“Australian communities and businesses are already facing the escalating impacts of climate change. Failing to set a strong, science-based Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) will increase Australia’s contribution to rising global emissions while diminishing our relevance within a global economy that is rapidly decarbonising and seeking green, renewable products.
“The evidence is clear. We call on the government to set an ambitious NDC of 75% and leave a historic legacy for all Australians.”
Ben & Jerry’s Activism Manager Hilary McAllister:
"This target is not just what Australians need - it's what Australians deserve, and an essential step in taking the bold, necessary action we need to address the climate crisis. Through campaigns such as This Is Our Whirled, Save Southern Sea and Unfudge our Future, Ben and Jerry's has long advocated for progressive environmental policy, informed by scientific targets. We know that doing right by our planet is good business, and it's now the Government's turn to match our ambition and commit to 75% by 2035.”
Canva Co-founder and Chief Product Officer Cameron Adams:
"Australian businesses are already stepping up, cutting emissions and building the industries our kids will inherit. It’s vital that the government matches this pace as our ecosystems are being impacted at an alarming rate. A national target of at least 75% by 2035 isn't just policy - it's how we ensure Australia stays competitive even as our trading partners move ahead. This is our moment to lead, and the next generation deserves nothing less from us."
ENDS
Contact details:
For more information or interviews: Alana Theodor, Future Group 0420 525 556 [email protected]