Australia’s role in delivering an ambitious COP31
Later this year, Australia will take on the Presidency of Negotiations at the COP31 UN climate talks. This is a pivotal moment that places our region at the centre of global climate diplomacy.
While our bid to host the talks was not successful, the Presidency of Negotiations role carries enormous influence. It sets the agenda, frames the ambition, guides the negotiation culture and ultimately shapes the outcomes of the 2026 climate talks. Attention now turns to what kind of presidency Australia will choose to be, and how this moment can reflect the values of partnership, community and justice that the region itself has called for.
Pacific leaders and advocates have been clear: COP31 must elevate voices from communities on the frontline of climate change. This presidency offers a rare opportunity for Australia to walk alongside Pacific neighbours in genuine partnership, ensuring their leadership and priorities directly influence the global climate agenda.
If COP31 is to deliver the ambitious, community-centred outcomes it promises, it is clear that there are numerous ways that civil society must be supported. Whether that is through funding for advocacy opportunities, shaping public understanding and supporting First Nations delegate travel, Australia has a major role to play.
Last October, the Australian Environmental Grantmakers Network, Groundswell Giving and Philanthropy Australia brought together climate strategists and sector leaders to explore what an Australia-Pacific COP31 might mean for the region and the global climate agenda. Since then, expectations have sharpened, and the call for an ambitious, community centred presidency has only grown louder.
It is time for us to come together again, to unpack what this presidency means and how philanthropy can engage meaningfully. As part of Climate Action Week Sydney, we invite you to an early evening briefing and networking event, where we will share perspectives on Australia’s role and where our influence genuinely sits as COP31 President, and explore how Pacific priorities are being positioned in the lead-up to the Pacific Pre-COP.
Speakers and further program details will be shared soon, including information on a speaker from Philanthropy Australia.
The joint event is open to funders and will be held in Sydney on Wednesday 11th March 2026, from 5:00pm – 7:00pm AEDT
