1. Policy framework

1.1 Victorian Climate Change White Paper

On 26 July 2010, the former Victorian Government released Taking Action for Victoria's Future: Victorian Climate Change White Paper - The Action Plan.

The White Paper sets out 10 broad categories of actions for Government over the next four years, the primary one of which is to reduce State emissions by at least 20% by 2020, compared to 2000 levels (equivalent to 40% per capita). This target will be legislated under the Climate Change Bill, shortly to be introduced in Parliament.

Emission reductions will occur in Victoria through energy and fuel efficiency, changes to the energy mix, improved agricultural practices and land carbon sequestration.

Over $329 million in new funds has been ear-marked for the actions under the White Paper. This is on top of the $322 million announced in the last eight months for climate change and renewable energy programs, including the $175 million Jobs for the Future Economy launched in April 2010.

The priority actions are:

Action 1 - Legislating to cut Victoria's greenhouse pollution by at least 20%
Action 2 - Moving towards a cleaner energy future
Action 3 - Making Victoria the solar state
Action 4 - Supporting cleaner and more efficient homes
Action 5 - Positioning Victoria to be a global leader in clean technology
Action 6 - Creating new opportunities in agriculture, food and forestry
Action 7 - Delivering innovative transport solutions
Action 8 - Greening government
Action 9 - Helping Victorians adapt to climate change
Action 10 - Strengthening our Climate Communities