Beyond Zero Emissions has revealed Australia’s capacity to lead the global clean technology movement, presenting strategies poised to generate $215 billion in revenue and 53,000 jobs by 2035.
Titled “Make it here: building Australia’s clean industrial future,” the report identified five key cleantech supply chains – solar, wind, batteries, heat pumps, and commercial electric vehicles – as crucial in driving Australia’s economic growth and decarbonisation efforts.
Among these, battery technologies emerge as the most promising sector, with the potential to create up to 20,000 jobs and generate $114 billion in revenue by 2035.
BZE CEO, Heidi Lee, emphasised Australia’s readiness to lead in clean technology. Lee stated, “From making batteries to recycling steel, the future is already being made in Australia. We have the skills, capabilities, and key technologies needed for a zero-emissions economy – let’s put them to work.”
Crucially, the report emphasised strategic investment in industries and regional communities to transition away from fossil fuels towards a clean technology future.
Areas such as Gladstone, QLD, Kwinana, WA, and the Hunter Valley, NSW, are highlighted as hubs ripe for transformation.
Key recommendations from the report include providing financial support to build competitive Australian cleantech manufacturing industries, stimulating demand for Australian-made cleantech products, and concentrating cleantech manufacturing in designated clean industry hubs.
Additionally, developing a circular economy is underscored as essential for sustainable growth.
Lee stressed the importance of building capability across cleantech supply chains to capitalise on domestic and global demand.
She pointed out, “We need to double down on doing more of what we know, and support the communities, industries, and businesses already set up and ready to make Australia’s future.”