Insights from Ross Garnaut’s book launch: Let's Tax Carbon
Insights from Ross Garnaut’s book launch: Let's Tax Carbon
By SHANNON BEATTIE, with thanks to Meri Fatin, Phil Gardiner and Alex Gardner
At the beginning of November, Professor Ross Garnaut, one of Australia’s leading economists, launched his latest book Let’s Tax Carbon (And Other Ideas for a Better Australia) at The University Club of Western Australia.
The event, presented by the Oil Mallee Association in partnership with UWA’s Centre for Energy and supported by Murdoch University, brought together policymakers, academics, and industry leaders to explore Garnaut’s ideas on Australia’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
A number of AgZero2030 working group members were in attendance, including Hamish Maclean, Larissa Taylor, Phil Gardiner, and Alex Gardner.
Meri Fatin, founder of WA Climate Leaders and a key AgZero2030 supporter, was also in attendance.
Together, Meri, Phil and Alex shared their insights from the event, highlighting the pressing need for bold action on climate change and the potential of a carbon tax as part of the solution.
Reviving the Carbon Tax Debate
Prof Garnaut’s new book is a collection of recent lectures and papers that advocate for the reintroduction of a carbon tax as a critical tool in Australia’s climate policy.
Reflecting on the country’s stagnant political leadership and declining standard of living since 2013, Prof Garnaut argued that Australia cannot afford to continue with a "small target" approach to policy.
He cited historical precedents - such as the economic reforms of the Menzies and Hawke eras - as evidence that "impossible" policies can become achievable with the right vision and public support.
For Prof Garnaut, the case for a carbon tax is clear: Australia’s transition away from fossil fuels must be managed carefully to ensure a sustainable future.
He emphasised that while the fossil fuel sector is facing challenges, it is essential for Australia to be a partner in the global shift towards renewable energy, especially given our political stability and abundant natural resources.
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AgZero2030 working group members Hamish Maclean (left), Phil Gardiner, and Larissa Taylor at the book launch. |
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WA’s Growing Emissions Challenge A key issue raised during the launch was Western Australia’s growing emissions, and Prof Garnaut acknowledged that the state’s increasing emissions make it difficult for the rest of the country to meet Australia’s emissions reduction targets. He warned that failing to address this issue would likely result in Australia breaching both its domestic and international obligations, a situation that must be rectified to avoid further economic and environmental harm. The Road Ahead Prof Garnaut agreed that the introduction of a carbon price would need to be carefully calibrated, with an emphasis on transitioning from coal and gas to renewable energy. He acknowledged that a carbon tax may not be politically popular at first, however he emphasised it would be an essential long-term strategy to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for Australia. As Australia grapples with its climate challenges, Prof Garnaut’s call for bold, "impossible" policies should be a wake-up call for all of us. The time for action is now, and the lessons from history and the potential of innovative technologies offer a clear path forward. |
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Professor Ross Garnaut speaking at the launch for his latest book Let’s Tax Carbon (And Other Ideas for a Better Australia) at The University Club of Western Australia. |
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This summary captures the essence of the book launch and the key takeaways from the event. Thanks to Meri Fatin, Phil Gardiner and Alex Gardner for their valuable insights on this important discussion. By raising these critical issues and challenging us to think big, Prof Garnaut’s vision offers hope for a better, more sustainable future. |