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Climateworks experts available to respond to 2026 Federal Budget

12th May 2026

Climateworks Centre experts are available to comment on the 2026 Federal Budget.

Anna Malos – Australia Lead, former Assistant Director at the Climate Change Authority and former climate policy expert with the UK and Victorian Governments. Can speak to land use and biodiversity targets, and Australia’s overarching climate policy. 

 

'At a time of rapid global change, it’s vital the budget strengthens Australia’s resilience by drawing on our economic strengths and clean‑energy resources.'

 

'A strong budget not only sets out spending and revenue, but also government priorities which provide market signals to guide companies and investors. Sensible investments and policy changes focused on building momentum through the next five years will position Australia for long‑term success.'

 

'Leveraging our green‑energy advantage can deepen regional trade ties while meeting climate, energy and biodiversity goals.'

 

Helen Rowe – Climateworks Centre's Transport Lead, transport expert and former Director of Sustainable Transport Programs with the Victorian Government. Can speak to road user charging, electric vehicle (EV) incentives and freight electrification, public transport, walking, cycling, freight on rail and transport infrastructure.

 

'This budget can play a pivotal role in responding to the current fuel crisis and Australia’s growing transport emissions. Helping more Australians to get behind the wheel of an EV, hop on a bike or on public transport, and supporting businesses to roll out electric trucks and vans, is shifting Australia’s reliance on imported fuel to energy made in Australia – all while minimising transport emissions.' 

 

Dr Gill Armstrong – Climateworks Centre’s Buildings Lead, expert in new and existing residential and non-residential buildings, and Chartered Architectural Technologist. Can speak to built environment, Social Housing Energy Performance Initiative, and electrification incentives including home batteries.

 

'Households are looking to this budget for cost of living relief that actually lasts. Investing in efficient, all electric buildings and home batteries is one of the fastest ways the government can lower power bills, reduce emissions and improve resilience at scale. Families in rental homes are a priority – where investment can make the biggest difference.'

 

Kylie Turner – Climateworks Centre’s Sustainable Economies Lead (based in WA), expert in stakeholder convening on net zero strategy and policy for green economic diversification. Can speak to state and territory climate policy, international climate diplomacy, integrated electricity system planning, Safeguard Mechanism and creating demand for Australian green commodities.

 

'This budget is a critical opportunity to align Australia’s economic and climate agenda at a moment of profound global transformation.'

 

'Australia’s competitiveness in a decarbonising global economy will depend on coordinated action across governments to accelerate renewable energy deployment, modernise integrated electricity system planning, and strengthen the policy architecture supporting decarbonisation.'

 

'Investing in a more connected, resilient and flexible energy system will help Australia manage growing electricity demand, reduce exposure to global fossil fuel volatility, and provide greater certainty for Australians during the transition.'

 

Alex Veale – Climateworks Centre’s Industry Lead, expert in decarbonising heavy industry and former Sustainability and Advanced Manufacturing Lead at Global Victoria. Can speak to Future Made in Australia and Australia’s energy and resource sovereignty and green superpower ambitions.

 

'This budget is an opportunity for "Future Made in Australia" to strengthen Australia’s economic security by turning the nation's renewable advantage into real industrial capability. The funding is largely in place, and the priority now is coordinating and accelerating it to deliver projects on the ground.' 

 

For interviews, please contact: 

Ella Healy | +61 492 265 437 | [email protected]

Climateworks Centre bridges the gap between research and climate action, operating as an independent not-for-profit within Monash University for the past 15 years. Climateworks Centre develops specialist knowledge to accelerate emissions reduction, in line with the global 1.5°C temperature goal, across Australia, Southeast Asia and the Pacific.

 

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