Climate Justice
The Uniting Church believes that God is the Creator of the world in which we live and move and have our being, and that God calls us into a particular relationship with the rest of creation – a relationship of mutuality and interdependence which seeks the reconciliation of all creation with God.
Right now, our planet is experiencing a climate crisis. The Uniting Church calls for urgent action towards a more sustainable planet and support for those most impacted. READ MORE about our commitments.
Ahead of the 2026 United Nations Climate Change Conference - COP31 - Uniting Climate has launched its campaign to call on the Australian Government to be bold in their leadership on the world stage during this year's Season of Creation.
Australia has an important international role in the lead-up to COP31 taking place in Antalya, Türkiye from November 9 to 20, 2026. While Türkiye will host the conference and hold the formal presidency, Australia will lead negotiations in partnership with Pacific countries. This is an important opportunity for Australia to lead by example, lift global climate ambition and ensure Pacific priorities are heard.
As the Church, we bring a unique voice to this moment. We can pray for ministers, negotiators and political leaders, encouraging them to act with wisdom and courage. We can also use the Church’s moral authority to call for decisions that protect creation, uphold justice and respond to the voices of Pacific communities. We also need the support and people power in Australia to raise our collective voices for a fairer, more just climate future.
The 2026 theme is Living Water, inspired by Ezekiel 47:9 and 12. In Ezekiel’s vision, water flows from God’s sanctuary, restoring damaged places and bringing new life wherever it travels. The theme invites us to become a part of that life-giving river through prayer, reflection and action for creation.
During four Sundays in September, participating congregations can:
- Learn about the campaign and join UCAN;
- Write prayers for ministers and climate decision-makers to be posted to Climate and Energy Minister Chris Bowen;
- Support the global multifaith call for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty;
- Reflect on the national engagement and local MP engagement.
Each congregation will contribute to a coordinated national action, combining prayer, visible public witness and direct engagement with political decision-makers.
If you would like to get involved, learn more about the campaign at Uniting Climate.
Assembly Climate Action Plan
In 2021, the Uniting Church Assembly adopted a new Climate Action Plan designed to encourage action across the Church.
The Action Plan commits the Assembly to reduce its carbon footprint to achieve net zero emissions by 2040 by cutting back greenhouse gas emissions by 5 per cent per annum. Additionally we are committed to advocate for better climate policies and to prioritise the voices of First Peoples and those impacted most by climate change.
For many years, the Uniting Church has spoken out about the need for greater action on climate change and to care for God’s creation. We also acknowledge that our words are not enough. This Climate Action Plan
is intended to drive that action. READ THE PLAN
Towards Zero
Explore how you and your faith community can shape a better future for our planet in the video series Towards Zero.
Reflecting on his own personal journey, and drawing on his experience in the renewable energy industry, Rev Dr Zhang shows us the real possibility of becoming carbon neutral as a household, a congregation, a network of agencies and a whole church. The video series is accompanied by practical actions, and importantly, tools to measure our impact.
Share your story
We would love to hear about what you are doing in your community to take action on climate change. Email us.
Climate Action
The Uniting Church has supported the global climate strike led by students calling on our leaders to take stronger action. Read more
Season of Creation
UCA mebers join people across the world in acts of worship and advocacy to promote care for all creation throughout the month of September. Read more
MORE RESOURCES
Taking Action in your local community
This document lists resources for talking about climate change in your congregation or from a faith perspective, planning worship, and creating a climate action plan for your congregation.