November 2025

Mandatory climate reporting: What you need to know

Climate reporting is mandatory for Australia’s largest companies – and this will ripple through the rest of the industry. Consult Australia has developed a business guide to help smaller business members respond.

From 1 January 2025, Australia’s largest companies were required to publish annual statements outlining their climate-related plans, risks and opportunities. The number of companies captured will grow each year.

“As big companies assess climate-related risks across their supply chains, smaller businesses will be required to provide data on their own emissions, sustainability practices and climate risks to support the reporting obligations of their clients and partners,” says Consult Australia’s National Policy Manager, Kristine Banks.

“Eventually, all companies with more than 100 employees will be reporting. This ripple effect means SMEs may need to enhance their climate governance, measure their own emissions, and prepare clear and credible disclosures. 

“The compliance burden will increase, but so will opportunities for those ready to adapt.”

To help members understand the Australian Sustainability Report Standards (ASRS) legislation and what it means for them, Consult Australia has teamed up with SLR Consulting to develop a guide.

“This is a significant change for industry, presenting both challenges and opportunities. We were keen to assist Consult Australia members in understanding the requirements and share our expertise,” says James Balík-Meacher, SLR Consulting’s Technical Director for Climate Change and Net Zero Lead.

The guide outlines the mandatory climate reporting requirement, the case for voluntarily reporting and provide tips on how to prepare.

A company that meets two out of the three below criteria in a group is subject to the reporting requirements from the listed date. 

“Even if your business isn’t required to report yet, it’s worth getting ready. The guide outlines simple steps to assess your readiness, strengthen climate governance and build internal capability,” Kristine concludes.

To download Consult Australia’s Mandatory Climate Reporting business guide, head over to the Consult Australia Member Resources Portal.