2026 ACT Annual Oration
Climate change looks grim but we have many of the solutions
The existing and projected impacts of climate change on Australia’s human and natural systems are now well established to be crucial in determining our collective future (e.g. see the National Climate Risk Assessment or the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report). While the risks of climate change, and actions to lower that risk, sometimes appear to pose an insurmountable barrier, it is increasingly clear that the costs of not responding to this complex challenge far outweigh the costs of action in terms of both emission-reduction and adaptation. In this presentation, Professor Howden will briefly lay out the grim reality of the current trajectory of climate change impacts for Australia before delving into the solutions. For example, there are many examples of solutions that are already making a difference (e.g. the ACT has already reached its renewable electricity goal, and a third of our new vehicle fleet are now EVs). Similarly, there are many technological solutions for better adaptation, such as better design and materials in our built infrastructure. Often, many of these solutions are understood and even demonstrated, but coordinated progress is lacking in their implementation and operation. The increased role of ATSE in an effective national climate response will be addressed briefly.
Event Details
📅 Date: Thursday 11 June 2026
🕕 Time (AEST): 12:00pm – 1:00pm
📍 Location: ANU, Hedley Bull Building, Lecture Theatre 2 and Online
This event is open to all.
ACT Division Annual Meeting
All ACT Division Fellows are invited to the 2026 Annual Meeting following the Oration. Further details about the meeting can be found below and papers will be attached in your confirmation email.
Annual Meeting Details
📅 Date: Thursday 11 June 2026
🕕 Time (AEST): 1:10pm – 2:00pm
📍 Location: ANU, Hedley Bull Building, Lecture Theatre 2 and Online
Fellows are invited to join the committee and nominate for the roles of Chair, Deputy Chair/Secretary, Membership Coordinator and Treasurer. You may indicate your interest during the registration process.
Note: Attendance is restricted to ACT Division Fellows only.
