Australian Sustainable Finance Initiative
ASFI plots Australia’s path to zero emissions
The Australian Sustainable Finance Initiative roadmap, published on 24 November, puts forward a plan to align the Australian economy and financial system with outcomes that encourage sustainability, resilience and future prosperity. It sets ambitious targets, including some that stretch beyond federal government goals, and lays out a timeline for achieving them.
TNFD ramps up but investor engagement lacking
Following a test launch in March, the Taskforce for Nature-related Disclosures is progressing toward a late-2023 implementation date for its framework. Sources say Australasian corporates look reasonably well-prepared – but they cannot say the same for institutional investors.
Refreshed ASFI delivers market leadership
The Australian Sustainable Finance Institute has a new board, a more permanent role and a freshly minted executive officer, Kristy Graham. The institute’s goals have not changed: to drive realignment of the Australian financial services system so more money flows to support sustainability. Graham updates KangaNews Sustainable Finance on developments including taxonomy progress and work with international peers.
No dodging climate reporting in Australia
Australian companies will likely not be able to avoid global climate reporting standards as offshore organisations ramp up disclosure requirements – whether or not there is a mandatory scheme domestically. Market participants say the international mood is changing and Australian companies and investors will have to shift with it.
ASFI roadmap unites the financial sector
Jacki Johnson and Simon O’Connor, co-chairs of the Australian Sustainable Finance Initiative, explain how the initiative’s roadmap, launched in November 2020, will bring together the finance sector to lead the drive for a more sustainable, resilient and prosperous Australia.
Convergence and divergence on key ESG debates
Debates around price, impact and social benefit in environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing have been quickly developing in recent years, and been further energised by the COVID-19 crisis. Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) facilitated a discussion to get the latest views from issuers and investors.
