CorpComms Magazine

Has Australia introduced a new tax?

Yes it has passed new legislation on carbon tax.

And who will be affected by it?

Well it would mean that 500 of the biggest offending organisations would have to pay for each tonne of carbon that they produce.

Why has the tax been introduced?

It is all to do with Australia's plan to tackle climate change in a big way.

Has it been warmly received?

Quite the opposite. Many people have opposed the new tax, saying that it will lead to job losses and raise living costs. Critics say that 60 per cent will be worse off.

But Australia is one of the biggest greenhouse gas emitters.

True. But that doesn't stop people from protesting.

So when will the tax come into force?

On 1 July next year.

And how much will the culprits have to pay?

A$23 for each tonne of carbon produced, which is equivalent to about £15.

How much do they hope to reduce emissions by?

By almost 160 million tonnes by 2020.

Isn't there some kind of carbon trading scheme that is going to be introduced?

Yes in 2015 carbon trading will begin, at a three-year price ceiling of A$20 per tonne.

So do you think the tax is here to stay?

Well not if conservative MP Tony Abbott gets into office. He has vowed to eradicate the carbon tax.

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