13 Aug 2019

Australia to fund big Pacific renewable energy, climate change package

10:43 am on 13 August 2019

Australia's government has announced a big funding package for renewable energy and climate change adaptation in the Pacific.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison addresses the media at Parliament House in Canberra, 13 February 2019.

Scott Morrison Photo: AP

The announcement comes a day before Prime Minister Scott Morrison arrives in Tuvalu, where he's likely to come under fire for Australia's climate policies.

These include plans to spend $US3.4 million - from existing aid funds - over the next five years on renewable energy, ensuring infrastructure withstands climate change, and ensuring health services respond to changing needs.

Mr Morrison said Australia recognised the climate challenges the region faces and is doing its bit to help.

He also said his government is doing its bit to cut emissions, something Pacific leaders are highly sceptical of.

The funding, while welcome, is unlikely to placate the region's leaders who want the region's biggest economy to do more to cut emissions - so adaptation won't be necessary.

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