News

Media comment, updates and analysis from the ACCR team.

  1. Media release

    Incitec Pivot shareholders revolt on climate

    ACCR generates 43.71% support for its shareholder resolution at ASX-listed explosives and fertiliser manufacturer Incitec Pivot Ltd (ASX:IPL).

  2. Media release

    Dendrobium decision reeks of state capture

    ACCR is commenting on the decision by the NSW government to deem South32’s (ASX:S32) Dendrobium coal mine expansion “State Significant Infrastructure”.

  3. Media release

    Woodside’s debt dressed up as equity in climate-wrecking project

    ACCR commenting on Woodside Petroleum’s (ASX:WPL) announcement that it has reached a final investment decision (FID) on Scarborough and Pluto Train 2 developments.

  4. Media release

    Woodside ignores COP26, accelerates emissions growth

    ACCR commenting on Woodside Petroleum’s (ASX:WPL) sale of a 49% share in Pluto Train 2 Joint Venture to Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP).

  5. Media release

    BHP climate plan a greenwash

    This vote suggests institutional investors are easily cowed by big companies like BHP and they’re unwilling to force them to adhere to the Paris Agreement.

  6. Media release

    FMG AGM: Support WA Aboriginals’ calls to pause current ACH Bill

    FMG appears to support better heritage protection standards in theory, but not in practice.

  7. Media release

    BHP offloads coal assets to a climate laggard

    ACCR is commenting on BHP’s divestment of 80% interest in BHP Mitsui Coal (BMC) to Stanmore SMC Holdings Pty Ltd.

  8. Media release

    Investors must rein in APPEA’s tobacco-inspired ad campaign

    This insidious APPEA advertising campaign, a week ahead of COP26, is a classic example of climate action delay tactics from the fossil fuel lobby, inspired by the tobacco industry.

  9. Media release

    Rio Tinto shows BHP how it’s done

    ACCR comment on Rio Tinto’s (ASX:RIO) newly announced emissions reduction targets and strategy.

  10. Media release

    Origin Energy cops shareholder heat on gas

    ACCR comment on the voting results on its two shareholder resolutions at the AGM of Origin Energy (ASX:ORG).

  11. Media release

    Juukan Gorge Caves Inquiry - time for best practice cultural heritage laws

    ACCR welcomes the final report of the Parliamentary Inquiry into the Destruction of the Juukan Gorge Caves by Rio Tinto Ltd in May 2020.

  12. Media release

    BHP shareholders support coal mining beyond 2050

    Despite its claims of climate leadership, BHP’s climate plan isn’t even close to what is required to prevent runaway climate change.

  13. Media release

    Incitec Pivot must set Paris-aligned targets

    ACCR has filed a shareholder resolution with ASX-listed explosives and fertiliser manufacturer Incitec Pivot Ltd (ASX:IPL), calling on the company to set emissions reduction targets aligned with the Paris Agreement.

  14. Shareholder Resolution

    ACCR Shareholder Resolution to Incitec Pivot Ltd on Paris-aligned targets

    ACCR has filed a Shareholder Resolution to Incitec Pivot Ltd (ASX: IPL) on Paris-aligned targets

  15. Media release

    Fortescue embarrasses BHP and Rio Tinto on steelmaking targets

    ACCR welcomes Fortescue Metals Group’s (ASX:FMG) announcement that it has set a target to reach net zero Scope 3 emissions by 2040, which incorporates emissions from steelmaking.

  16. Media release

    ACCR launches Global Climate Insights

    ACCR will be offering in-depth company-level climate analysis of internationally listed companies, via a new research group called Global Climate Insights (GCI).

  17. Media release

    South32 puts industry associations on notice over climate

    The board of South32 (ASX:S32) will support ACCR’s shareholder resolution, which seeks to ensure the advocacy of its industry associations is consistent with the Paris Agreement.

  18. Media release

    Majority of AGL shareholders demand alignment with the Paris Agreement

    Comment on the results of AGL Energy’s (ASX:AGL) annual general meeting, at which ACCR’s shareholder resolution calling for Paris-aligned targets was supported by 52.56% of shareholders.

  19. Media release

    APPEA apology to ACCR

    ACCR accepts as sincere the apology of APPEA and its CEO Andrew McConville. We trust that APPEA and Mr McConville will observe the usual courtesies of public debate in our future dealings.

  20. Media release

    BHP must end support for fossil fuel expansion

    ACCR welcomes BHP’s support for the shareholder resolution on climate-related lobbying. BHP must use its unique position of leadership to push for more ambitious emissions reductions before 2030.

  21. Media release

    Santos and Oil Search merger compounds stranded asset risk

    The vast majority of planned Santos and Oil Search projects are inconsistent with a safe climate and are vulnerable to asset stranding in the face of escalating global decarbonisation efforts.

  22. Briefing note

    Investor briefing: Shareholder Resolutions to Origin Energy Ltd on climate-related lobbying and Paris-aligned capital expenditure.

    Supporting brief to our shareholder resolutions to Origin Energy Ltd on climate-related lobbying and Paris-aligned capital expenditure.

  23. Briefing note

    Investor briefing: Shareholder Resolution to BHP Group Ltd/Plc on climate-related lobbying

    Supporting brief to our Shareholder Resolution to BHP Group Ltd/Plc on lobbying related to climate and energy policy.

  24. Media release

    Carbon lobby continues to dominate Australia’s climate debate

    The carbon lobby - dominated by coal, oil and gas companies - are detrimentally effective in shaping Australia’s climate and energy policy. Their influence has not waned.

  25. Media release

    Big super funds missing in action on ESG votes

    Despite a growing number of super funds claiming to incorporate ESG into their investment processes, the majority of super funds are still failing to support ESG proposals.

  26. Media release

    FMG resolution: support WA Aboriginals’ calls to pause current ACH Bill

    FMG investors simply can’t stand by and watch another Juukan Gorge disaster unfold. The moral dimension is obvious.

  27. Shareholder Resolution

    ACCR Shareholder Resolution to Fortescue Metals Group on Australian cultural heritage protection law.

    ACCR has filed a Shareholder Resolution to Fortescue Metals Group Limited (ASX: FMG) on Australian cultural heritage protection law.

  28. Media release

    ASX 100: Labour falling through the cracks

    Australian listed companies continue to remain opaque about their labour hire, contracting and outsourcing practices.

  29. Media release

    Australasian Centre for Corporate Responsibility files landmark case against Santos in Federal Court

    Acting on behalf of ACCR, lawyers from the Environmental Defenders Office (EDO) will claim that Santos is engaging in misleading or deceptive conduct in potential contravention of both corporate and consumer law.

  30. Media release

    South32 must end pro-coal lobbying to align with its own targets

    ACCR has filed a Shareholder Resolution to South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) calling on the company to ensure the advocacy of its industry associations is consistent with the Paris Agreement.

  31. Briefing note

    Investor briefing: Shareholder Resolution to AGL Energy Ltd on Paris-aligned goals and targets.

    Supporting brief to our Shareholder Resolution to AGL Energy Ltd on Paris-aligned goals and targets.

  32. Shareholder Resolution

    ACCR Shareholder Resolution to South32 Ltd on climate-related lobbying.

    ACCR has filed a Shareholder Resolution to South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) on industry association memberships and climate-related lobbying.

  33. Media release

    Origin must align lobbying and capex with Paris Agreement

    ACCR has filed two shareholder resolutions with Origin Energy Ltd (ASX:ORG) on climate-related lobbying and capital expenditure.

  34. Media release

    BHP-Woodside merger a disaster for shareholders and climate

    Commenting on the sale of BHP’s Petroleum division (ASX:BHP) to Woodside Petroleum (ASX:WPL).

  35. Shareholder Resolution

    ACCR Shareholder Resolutions to Origin Energy Ltd on climate-related lobbying and Paris-aligned capital expenditure.

    ACCR has filed Shareholder Resolutions to Origin Energy Ltd on climate-related lobbying and Paris-aligned capital expenditure.

  36. Media release

    AGL says it won’t adhere to Paris Agreement

    Unfortunately for AGL shareholders, the market will take care of replacing that capacity, which will make AGL’s coal-fired power stations unprofitable and destroy even more shareholder value.

  37. Media release

    Tomago going green is the nail in the coffin for AGL’s Bayswater

    Tomago aluminium smelter will switch to predominantly renewable energy by 2029. It is the final nail in the coffin for AGL's Bayswater coal-fired power station.

  38. Media release

    IPCC report: wrong way, go back

    The IPCC has sent us all a blunt warning: we are on the wrong path, and we must turn back.

  39. Media release

    Origin must abandon gas exploration to be 1.5°C aligned

    Origin Energy becomes the sixth ASX-listed company to have committed to a ‘Say on Climate’.

  40. Media release

    BHP must cease lobbying efforts which are inconsistent with Paris targets

    Concerned shareholders will persist in holding BHP to account for the obstructive lobbying of its industry associations.

  41. Shareholder Resolution

    ACCR Shareholder Resolution to BHP Group Ltd on climate-related lobbying.

    ACCR has filed a Shareholder Resolution to BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) on industry association memberships and climate-related lobbying.

  42. Media release

    Santos and Oil Search merger climate vandalism of the highest order

    The Santos and Oil Search merger demonstrates that neither company is serious about taking climate action, and that their only goal is to maximise oil and gas production at a time when climate chaos is raging across the northern hemisphere.

  43. Media release

    Qantas: Unlawful Outsourcing of Ground Handling Crew

    Qantas axed its highly skilled and experienced workforce, choosing to outsource to an organisation with a poor safety record and history of labour scandals.

  44. Media release

    AGL’s Say on Climate commitment welcome, Paris-aligned targets still needed

    Despite saying that AGL couldn’t commit to Paris-aligned targets for the proposed demerged companies, as that would be a matter for the new boards, it has now made this commitment to ‘Say on Climate’.

  45. Media release

    Progress welcome in resolving Bougainville mine grievances

    The parties should be commended for their progress. It is also an encouraging sign of practical progress from Rio Tinto under its new leadership.

  46. Media release

    AGL must set Paris-aligned targets for demerged companies

    Recent meetings with members of the Board suggest AGL is not prepared to set Paris-aligned targets, despite that now being a clear expectation of emissions intensive companies.

  47. Media release

    Santos’ bid for Oil Search proves net zero target is just greenwashing

    Santos has made little mention of climate change in its merger proposal announcement, claiming it can easily shift to hydrogen-based fuels - yet shows absolutely no pathway to this claim.

  48. Shareholder Resolution

    ACCR Shareholder Resolution to AGL Energy Ltd on Paris Goals and Targets

    ACCR has filed a Shareholder Resolution to AGL (ASX: AGL) on the disclosure of the proposed demerged companies’ Paris goals and targets.

  49. Media release

    Australian mines: Two-tier workforce threat to safety

    The explosion of a two-tier workforce on Australian mines does more than erode job security and working conditions. It fundamentally undermines safety, sometimes with fatal consequences.

  50. Media release

    Fair Work Ombudsman focus on contract cleaning spot on

    The Ombudsman’s announcement is a wake up call for property owners and their investors that exploitation remains a serious issue in the sector.

  51. Media release

    AGL demerger plans underwhelm, ignore climate concerns

    Investors continue to be frustrated by AGL’s continued denial of the need to bring forward the closure dates of its Bayswater and Loy Yang A coal-fired power stations.

  52. Media release

    Fossil industries stuck in the fossil age

    The parade of fossil fuel executives and lobbyists before the Parliamentary Inquiry today showed just how out of touch they are with financial markets, and their contempt for climate action.

  53. Media release

    Rejection of renewable energy hub another sign of a government lost on climate

    The Federal government has demonstrated that it is unwilling to support projects that would accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels.

  54. Media release

    Cosmetic Compliance Not Enough for Commercial Cleaning

    Despite all of the companies making commitments to eradicate modern slavery in their supply chain, analysis shows only cosmetic compliance.

  55. Media release

    APPEA and its members continue to block meaningful climate action

    Over the last three years, APPEA has significantly increased its spending on public communications and advertising campaigns extolling the virtues of gas, especially in the home, as the gas industry faces the threat of electrification.

  56. Media release

    Woodside claims to be reducing emissions by increasing emissions

    Woodside’s targets do not address the much larger issue of Scope 3 emissions, ignoring the demands of half of its shareholders to take responsibility for the emissions from the gas it sells.

  57. Media release

    Woodside and BHP Scarborough project conflicts with a net zero future

    The Woodside and BHP Scarborough project is at odds with the expectations of investors for companies to align their capital expenditure and decarbonisation strategies with the Paris Agreement.

  58. Media release

    Extraordinary 24 hours has massive implications for Australian oil and gas industry

    This news is nothing short of extraordinary, and it will have massive implications for the Australian oil and gas industry.

  59. Media release

    IEA signs death knell for new fossil fuel projects

    There is no need for investment in new fossil fuel supply (beyond projects already committed).

  60. Media release

    South32 sets new target, but has more to do

    “The decade to 2030 is critical, so South32 must also set ambitious short-term targets, as well as targets for its Scope 3 emissions.”

  61. Media release

    Deliveroo must provide investor certainty

    Today’s decision raises the prospect of further regulation, and calls into question the profitability of Deliveroo’s current business model.

  62. Briefing note

    Investor Brief: Worker-centric due diligence: towards effective compliance

    The only compliance initiatives that work are those that include a formal role for workers and their representatives (including trade unions) in compliance: worker-driven social responsibility (WSR) initiatives.

  63. Media release

    Fresh thinking needed at AGL

    “Spending years attempting a demerger will not absolve AGL of its responsibilities to its investors and the communities in which it operates.”

  64. Media release

    Santos’ CEO bonus at odds with Paris Agreement

    “The recently announced $6 million growth bonus for CEO Kevin Gallagher is equally at odds with any genuine commitment to transition Santos to net zero by incentivising development of the Narrabri Gas Project and completion of Barossa at all costs."

  65. Media release

    New Woodside CEO must be allowed to determine new growth strategy

    “The board has made the right decision to move Peter Coleman on, allowing the new CEO the clear air to determine a new strategy less focused on growing gas production."

  66. Media release

    Equinor first oil major to exit APPEA

    “If other members of APPEA—and their shareholders—expect to be taken seriously on climate, they should demand a stop to its advocacy for gas expansion, or exit.”

  67. Briefing note

    Consultation: 2021 climate plan voting guidelines

    In advance of the upcoming Say on Climate votes in April and May we are sharing our initial views of the key issues that should guide voting on climate plans for carbon intensive industries this year.

  68. Media release

    Climate Change Authority stacked with gas lobbyists

    "This is yet another example of the Morrison government cynically stacking an advisory body with fossil fuel lobbyists."

  69. Media release

    ACCR welcomes additional reporting by Scentre Group

    Scentre Group agreed to disclose their processes for identifying and mitigating risks within their cleaning supply chain. ACCR will be consulting with investors and other stakeholders on the reporting.

  70. Media release

    Fissured workplaces has Australians falling through the cracks

    The fissuring of the Australian workplace erodes job security and working conditions in the present, and negatively impacts on workers ability to achieve dignity in retirement. It is also a risk for companies, and their investors.

  71. Media release

    Santos’ Barossa project is a carbon bomb

    Institutional investors are demanding credible transition plans. Santos continues to fail on this measure.

  72. Media release

    AGL abandons responsibility on coal closure

    Following a halving in AGL’s share price over the last year, CEO Brett Redman is attempting to sell the demerger as a win for shareholders

  73. Media release

    AGL must lead the energy transition

    AGL is Australia’s largest emitter, responsible for approximately 8% of annual emissions. Its actions will have a real impact on Australia’s emissions trajectory.

  74. Media release

    Oil Search adopts ‘Say on Climate’

    We welcome the move by Oil Search (ASX:OSH) to adopt the Say on Climate initiative and provide shareholders with a non-binding vote on the company’s Climate Change Report at next year’s AGM.

  75. Media release

    Largest Australian companies failing on climate

    “The lack of progress from Australian companies is clear for all to see. Investors must now be prepared to take unprecedented action."

  76. Media release

    Emissions are down with Coles’ new targets

    “Coles’ previous emissions targets were underwhelming to say the least, but it has really delivered with this set of commitments."

  77. Media release

    Woodside adopts ‘Say on Climate’

    We welcome the move by Woodside Petroleum (ASX:WPL) to adopt the Say on Climate initiative and provide shareholders with a non-binding vote on the company’s Climate Change Report at next year’s AGM.

  78. Media release

    Rio Tinto board delivers final warning to climate blockers

    “For the first time, the board of an Australian company has supported a shareholder resolution. Rio Tinto should be commended for this."

  79. Media release

    Oil Search urged to adopt ‘Say on Climate’ as momentum builds

    “Oil Search’s only climate target relates to emissions intensity. It has no plan to reduce emissions over the short-, medium- or long-term.".

  80. Shareholder Resolution

    ACCR Shareholder Resolution to Oil Search Ltd to adopt Say on Climate reporting

    ACCR has filed a Shareholder Resolution to Oil Search Ltd asking for an annual vote on the adoption of a Climate Report consistent with the recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and the Climate Action 100+ Net-Zero Company Benchmark as developed by institutional investors.

  81. Media release

    Santos adopts ‘Say on Climate’

    We welcome the move by Santos (ASX:STO) to adopt the Say on Climate initiative and provide shareholders with a non-binding vote on the company’s Climate Change Report at next year’s AGM.

  82. Briefing note

    Investor briefing: Shareholder Resolution to Santos Ltd to adopt Say on Climate reporting

    An annual Say on Climate will provide shareholders with a non-binding advisory vote on Woodside's plan to reduce emissions and its performance against that plan.

  83. Media release

    FMG leads on climate, Twiggy must abandon gas projects

    Fortescue is now firmly leading corporate Australia with this commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2030, without reliance on offsets.

  84. Briefing note

    Investor briefing: Shareholder Resolutions to Woodside Petroleum Ltd to adopt Say on Climate reporting

    An annual Say on Climate will provide shareholders with a non-binding advisory vote on Woodside's plan to reduce emissions and its performance against that plan.

  85. Media release

    Yallourn early closure a sign of the times

    "While EnergyAustralia’s announcement is welcome, continuing to operate a brown-coal fired power station after 50 years of age poses a safety risk to workers and a health risk to the Latrobe Valley community."

  86. Media release

    Rio Tinto must stop funding climate blockers

    “Despite Rio Tinto’s Chairman and new CEO proclaiming their commitment to climate action, the company’s paid lobbyists continue to stand in the way of climate action.”

  87. Shareholder Resolution

    ACCR Shareholder Resolutions to Rio Tinto Ltd on climate-related lobbying

    The Australasian Centre for Corporate Responsibility (ACCR) has filed a shareholder resolution asking Rio Tinto (ASX:RIO) to immediately review the advocacy of its industry associations and suspend membership of groups found to be lobbying inconsistently with the Paris Agreement.

  88. Media release

    The clean out continues at Rio Tinto

    There is no realistic prospect of Rio Tinto rebuilding relationships, trust and reputation while those responsible for the degradation of its culture and social performance remain on the board.

  89. Media release

    Rio Tinto becomes first Australian company to commit to climate vote

    This commitment by Rio Tinto heaps further pressure on Santos and Woodside to support ACCR’s resolutions, which will allow shareholders a vote on their climate plans.

  90. Media release

    Glencore leads the way with commitment to climate vote

    “We welcome Glencore’s leadership and initial commitment to put its climate strategy to a vote, and encourage Glencore to commit to making it an annual exercise."

  91. Media release

    APPEA calls for the end of Australia’s oil and gas industry

    APPEA has updated its climate change policy principles for the first time since 2015, which includes its support for net zero emissions by 2050.

  92. Media release

    Say on Climate launches with resolutions to Santos and Woodside

    “The Say on Climate framework will provide shareholders with the opportunity to send a clear signal to the board about whether the company is effectively managing the risks of climate change.”

  93. Shareholder Resolution

    ACCR Shareholder Resolutions to Woodside Petroleum Ltd to adopt Say on Climate reporting

    ACCR has filed Shareholder Resolutions to Woodside Petroleum (ASX: WPL) asking for an annual vote on the adoption of a Climate Report consistent with the recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and the Climate Action 100+ Net-Zero Company Benchmark as developed by institutional investors.

  94. Shareholder Resolution

    ACCR Shareholder Resolution to Santos Ltd to adopt Say on Climate reporting

    ACCR has filed a Shareholder Resolution to Santos (ASX: STO) asking for an annual vote on the adoption of a Climate Report consistent with the recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and the Climate Action 100+ Net-Zero Company Benchmark as developed by institutional investors.

  95. Media release

    AGL and Origin writedowns: stranded assets in real time

    “This is a problem largely of the companies’ own making, having acquired the coal-fired power stations from state governments in the last decade, knowing full well the risks embedded in emissions intensive assets”.

  96. Media release

    ‘An afterthought’: Investors must hold Rio Chair to account

    “This is an elementary and entirely avoidable blunder by Thompson, reasonably interpreted by the PKKP as evidence that Rio still views its relationship with traditional owners as ‘an afterthought’.”

  97. Modern Slavery

    Scentre Group agrees to boost pandemic reporting

    ACCR has agreed to withdraw a planned shareholder resolution at their upcoming AGM calling for additional reporting from Scentre on its management of cleaning contracts.

  98. Media release

    Super funds divesting from fossil fuels before exhausting all engagement options to deliver for climate

    Engagement and escalation should be pursued prior to any divestment of fossil companies.

  99. Media release

    Juukan Gorge Caves Inquiry—serial and cumulative failings

    “The Inquiry’s diligent work has thrown a long-overdue light on the atrocious treatment of First Nations Australians by governments and mining companies. No one has escaped censure.”

  100. Media release

    G8 wage theft a failure of governance - what else is failing in this childcare system?

    “If child-care companies can’t function effectively enough to pay their workers, how are they trusted to look after children?”

  101. Scentre Group

    Calling all Scentre Group Shareholders

    If you hold Scentre Group (ASX:SCG) shares, please consider registering as a shareholder with ACCR to support this important work to ensure that the cleaners who are responsible for keeping us all safe aren’t subject to wage theft and even modern slavery.

  102. Media release

    Santos targets ignore the elephant in the room

    “Santos’ new climate targets ignore its biggest problem: the emissions from the oil and gas it sells to customers (Scope 3). Scope 3 emissions account for approximately 80% of Santos’ carbon footprint.”

  103. Media release

    Woodside climate targets: uninspiring business as usual

    Woodside’s newly announced climate targets are a disappointment to the investor community, demonstrating that the existing Board and Executive are simply not capable of delivering a transition consistent with limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees celsius.

  104. Media release

    Origin AGM: transparency on Indigenous consent and climate lobbying must improve

    Origin Energy cannot continue to ignore investor concerns on the consent of Indigenous communities and lobbying.

  105. Media release

    BHP investors remain focused on lobby groups

    “With this vote, investors have demonstrated to BHP that they remain focused on the impact of its industry associations on both Australian democracy and on climate action.”

  106. Media release

    BHP resolution withdrawn: First Nations Alliance reaches outcome with BHP

    “The measures the First Nations Alliance have secured with BHP could not have happened without the interest of the investment sector and the communication of their expectations about companies’ cultural heritage management.”

  107. Briefing note

    Investor briefing: Shareholder Resolutions to Origin Energy on FPIC and lobbying

    Read the background and reasoning behind upcoming shareholder resolutions to Origin Energy on consent and fracking, and lobbying relating to COVID-19 Recovery

  108. Media release

    BHP dumps QRC; Origin and Santos should do the same

    “BHP has proven the value of ACCR’s shareholder resolution—some industry associations simply won’t change unless there are financial consequences”.

  109. Media release

    AGL AGM: Blackrock support demonstrates Australian investors lag foreign peers

    “Blackrock’s support for this resolution embarrasses Australian super funds and asset managers who voted against the resolution.”

  110. Santos, Narrabri

    Narrabri gas project: investors now last line of defence

    The proposed Narrabri fracking project will imperil Australia’s commitments to the Paris Agreement and its high cost of production will likely see it stranded before the reserves are exhausted.

  111. Briefing note

    Investor briefing: Shareholder Resolutions to BHP Group on cultural heritage and lobbying

    Read the background and reasoning behind upcoming shareholder resolutions to BHP Group on cultural heritage protection and on lobbying relating to COVID-19 Recovery, and ACCR's recommendation that shareholders vote against the re-election of BHP board member Malcolm Broomhead.

  112. Media release

    FMG rejects ACCR shareholder resolution: courier delayed by COVID related issues

    "That FMG is using the pandemic to their advantage is reprehensible; that they are doing this to avoid shareholder scrutiny of their relationships with Aboriginal Traditional Owners begs the question, what are they hiding?”

  113. Media release

    Gas lobby secures taxpayer funding from Federal government for a failing industry

    “The Federal government may have finally given up on thermal coal but the carbon lobby won’t be deterred, by pushing gas, another dirty fossil fuel - which is proven to have the same, if not worse emissions than coal once fugitive methane emissions are factored in.”

  114. COVID-19

    Human Capital Management (HCM) and COVID-19: Engagement in the 2020 AGM season

    This guide draws on lessons learnt from the 2020 US and UK AGM seasons, and analysis of workplace transmission in frontline industries, to provide guidance on how to ensure that companies protect workers in the short term and properly manage their human capital and enhance value creation in the long term.

  115. Media release

    Rio Tinto takes the first step to recovery

    ACCR has welcomed the exit of Rio CEO, Jean-Sébastien Jacques, head of Corporate Relations Simone Niven and Head of Iron Ore Chris Salisbury, but remains concerned at the lack of cultural understanding displayed by the company and its board — specifically in the length of time it took to address this destruction of heritage.

  116. Media release

    FMG resolution calls for moratorium on desecration of Indigenous sites and cease gag orders on traditional owners

    Investors simply can’t stand by and watch another Juukan Gorge disaster unfold.

  117. Media release

    BHP: not good enough; try harder

    “Despite promising the world, BHP fails to deliver any meaningful outcomes in terms of actual emissions reduction. It needs to try harder. BHP should be aiming for a 40-60% reduction in all of its emissions by 2030.”

  118. Shareholder Resolution

    ACCR Shareholder Resolutions to Fortescue Metals Group Ltd on Cultural Heritage

    ACCR has filed Shareholder Resolutions to Fortescue Metals Group Ltd (ASX:FMG) requesting the a moratorium on the damage, removal or destruction of cultural heritage sites until laws are strengthened, and the remove gag orders on traditional owners.

  119. Media release

    BHP must commit to cutting fossil fuel production

  120. Media release

    Renewable energy good for BHP, but not for everyone else

    “BHP’s commitment to renewable energy is welcome. However, while BHP continues to expand fossil fuel production and its own lobby groups remain critical of renewable energy, this announcement is simply more greenwashing from the best in the business.”

  121. Modern slavery

    Modern Slavery, Subcontracting and Commercial Cleaning

    In 2020, ACCR launched a program of work that looked at material risks associated with various forms of indirect employment: labour hire, contracting and subcontracting. The commercial cleaning sector was identified as a sector where subcontracting is rife, and the risks associated with indirect employment are high.

  122. Briefing note

    Investor briefing: Shareholder Resolutions to AGL Energy Ltd on coal closure dates

    Shareholders request that our company align the closure dates of the Bayswater and Loy Yang A coal-fired power stations with a strategy to limit the increase in global temperatures to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

  123. Media release

    BHP, Origin Energy, Santos & Woodside aiming to destroy the Clean Energy Finance Corporation

    BHP, Origin Energy, Santos and Woodside are behind efforts to dirty up the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) by allowing it to invest in gas projects.

  124. Media release

    Woolworths: Wage debt now a third of company's profits

    “The figure raises significant questions about internal governance at Woolworths, which continues to refer to the breach as an ‘inadvertent underpayment’.”

  125. Article

    David Murray lacks 2020 board vision

    The former AMP chair did not accept the ESG demands that are now essential to shareholder value.

  126. modern slavery

    Ansell rakes in cash but no assurances against modern slavery

    While the COVID-19 pandemic has buoyed Australian manufacturing company Ansell, which announced a jump in profits today, it has apparently also halted the company's third-party auditing processes, which flag instances of modern slavery.

  127. Media release

    Rio board review: financial penalties completely off the mark of damage caused; CEO must go

    “Rio Tinto’s board review is highly disappointing. It amounts to little more than a public relations exercise that still attempts to blame the PKKP; previous Rio Tinto administrations; and anyone else, rather than the company’s current senior management.”

  128. Decent work and COVID-19

    Hotel Quarantine Inquiry: Appalling testimony - profits ahead of safety yet again

    Evidence heard at Victoria's COVID-19 Hotel Quarantine Inquiry today has further underscored the risks involved in the contracting of private security services. The Australasian Centre for Corporate Responsibility (ACCR) is calling on investors and companies to urgently review the use of subcontractors in high risk, front line sectors during the pandemic.

  129. Media release

    David Murray’s rejection of ESG risk finally catches up with him—and AMP

    “It’s abundantly clear that Murray and those who share his views have no place as Directors, much less Chairs, of any listed companies.”

  130. Shareholder Resolution

    ACCR Shareholder Resolutions to Origin Energy on lobbying and consent for fracking

    ACCR's Shareholder Resolution to Origin Energy calls on the company to establish an independent review of consent processes with Aboriginal Native Title holders, and to review the climate lobbying of its industry associations.

  131. Modern Slavery

    Modern Slavery and Horticulture Supply Chains

    ACCR has engaged Coles (COL) and Woolworths (WOW) on Modern Slavery and labour exploitation in their horticultural supply chains since 2017. Engagement is ongoing through 2020, with COVID-19 posing significant new challenges and risks to workers’ in these supply chains.

  132. BHP

    BHP backs away from Kyoto credits, issues new guidelines for lobby groups

    Now that Australia’s two largest miners, BHP and Rio Tinto, no longer support Kyoto carryover credits, the Business Council of Australia and the Minerals Council of Australia must withdraw their support too.

  133. Media release

    AGL’s battery investment: excellent step; now repeat

    AGL’s planned investment in batteries is welcome, but the strongest signal it could possibly send to the rest of the market right now, is to bring forward the closure dates of Bayswater and Loy Yang A.

  134. Fortescue Metals Group

    Calling all Fortescue Metals Group Shareholders

    If you hold FMG shares, please consider registering as a shareholder with ACCR to support this important work to protect cultural heritage.

  135. Media release

    BHP resolution: moratorium on desecration of Indigenous sites and cease gag orders on traditional owners

    “Investors simply can’t stand by and allow another Juukan Gorge disaster to take place.”

  136. Media release

    BHP Resolution: cease lobbying efforts on COVID-19 recovery which are inconsistent with Paris targets

    “The advocacy by key BHP industry associations throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has been fundamentally at odds with the Paris Agreement’s goals”

  137. Shareholder Resolution

    ACCR Shareholder Resolutions to BHP on cultural heritage and lobbying

    ACCR has filed Shareholder Resolutions to BHP Group Ltd (ASX:BHP) requesting the a moratorium on the damage, removal or destruction of cultural heritage sites until laws are strengthened, remove gag orders on traditional owners and cease lobbying efforts on COVID-19 recovery which are inconsistent with Paris targets.

  138. Shareholder Resolution

    ACCR Shareholder Resolution to AGL Energy Ltd on closure dates of Bayswater and Loy Yang A coal-fired power stations

    ACCR Shareholder Resolution and supporting statements to AGL Energy Ltd (ASX:AGL), requesting the company bring forward the closure dates of its Bayswater and Loy Yang A coal-fired power stations.

  139. AGL Energy

    AGL on a collision course with Paris targets and investors

  140. COVID-19, Santos

    Plans for fossil fuel-led recovery are outright dangerous

  141. Decent work and COVID-19

    Inghams’ COVID cases unsurprising

    ACCR is calling on investors of Australian meat processing companies to actively and urgently engage with them over the issue of workplace health and safety, following more Covid-19 clusters at meat processing facilities in Victoria.

  142. Origin Energy, Woodside

    Woodside, Origin writedowns: harbinger of oil and gas industry woes

  143. Subcontracting

    Broken chains of responsibility: Victorian COVID-19 clusters reveal subcontracting risks

    This short-term profiteering is a public health issue. Not only does it jeopardise the health and safety of workers, but it increases risks for the whole community, and has major implications for the whole economy.

  144. Subcontracting

    Profits ahead of safety yet again - subcontractors with minimal training guarding Melbourne quarantine hotels

  145. AGL Energy

    Nothing new: AGL’s latest climate statement is same old, same old

  146. Minerals Council of Australia

    MCA Climate Action Plan a delay tactic with no detail or tangible actions

  147. Glencore

    Glencore making a mockery of its coal commitment

  148. Tax

    Minerals Council members dodge headline company tax rate

    New analysis shows that members of the Minerals Council of Australia regularly avoid the highest company tax rate.

  149. COVID-19

    Gas industry has its claws in the recovery commission

  150. Event

    Free Webinar: How to use your position as a shareholder to change corporate behaviour - Wednesday May 27th, 5pm AEST

  151. COVID-19

    Private Prisons, Immigration Detention and COVID-19

  152. Norwegian Government Pension Fund

    Investment giant excludes AGL over coal, puts BHP ‘under observation’

  153. Woodside Petroleum

    Woodside shareholders slam climate inaction

  154. Border Industrial Complex

    Big tech involvement in Covidsafe app warrants further scrutiny

  155. Decent work and COVID-19

    Decent Work during COVID: The Role for Investors

    COVID-19 is a whole-of-economy crisis that requires a whole-of-economy response. While governments are leading with stimulus, there is a role for investors in ensuring that companies adhere to strong social, labour rights and human rights standards. The COVID crisis is an opportunity for investors to fortify their engagement on the “S”in ESG.

  156. Santos AGM

    Santos shareholders repudiate board’s climate direction in world first vote

  157. Media release

    Rio Tinto rebukes MCA on thermal coal, does not support use of Kyoto carryover credits, but keeps funding climate wreckers

  158. Covid-19

    Airline workers must share in industry stimulus package to Qantas, Virgin, Regional Airlines

  159. Border Industrial Complex

    Corporate complicity in immigration detention heightens risk during public health crisis

  160. Aged care crisis

    Covid-19 exacerbates Aged Care crisis

  161. Woodside

    Woodside to face investor pressure on expansion plans, lobbying and propaganda

  162. Coles, Wesfarmers underpayments

    Coles, Wesfarmers underpayments point to widespread governance failure

  163. Super fund voting

    Vote Like You Mean It Preliminary Report 2020

  164. Super fund voting

    Super Funds Failing To Step Up On Climate

  165. Siemens Adani

    Investors should ratchet up pressure on Siemens over Adani deal

  166. BHP

    ACCR response to BHP lobbying review

  167. BHP

    Mike Henry’s proximity to climate wreckers should concern investors

  168. Coles

    Coles AGM: Company urged to address Modern Slavery

  169. BHP

    BHP AGM: Australian investors take a stand on anti-climate lobbying

  170. Woolworths

    Woolworths underpayments a warning for governance of broader supply chains

  171. Qantas

    Qantas asylum seekers resolution — largest ever vote against a board on human rights issues

  172. Qantas

    Qantas board to face shareholders and experts on deportations and transfers to danger

  173. ANZ & NAB

    Big banks must stop funding lobbying against climate policy

  174. BHP

    BHP investors declare time’s up on anti-climate lobbying

  175. AGL

    AGL Energy AGM: Australian investors lagging on pollution

  176. BHP

    BHP under pressure on climate lobbying

  177. Coles

    ACCR files worker exploitation resolution with Coles

  178. Qantas

    Biloela family deportation facilitated by commercial entities profiting from human rights abuses

  179. Qantas

    International investor backs Qantas human rights resolution

  180. Origin

    ACCR files five shareholder resolutions with Origin

  181. Border Industrial Complex

    Aust PR company snubs international law in response to refugee abuse

  182. Aged Care

    QLD legislation recognises the importance of Aged Care workforce in providing quality care

  183. Supply chain exploitation

    ACCR: NUW report shows supermarkets must do more to manage exploitation in farm supply chains

  184. Border Industrial Complex

    Mercer PR ruling a warning to companies linked to refugee policy

  185. Workforce Disclosure Report

    ASX 100 failing to disclose workforce

  186. Proxy Voting Report

    New ACCR report finds growing support for shareholder proposals

  187. Sigma

    Unanswered questions over supply safety risks in Sigma’s supply chain

  188. Santos

    Santos challenged on climate at AGM

  189. Telstra

    Telstra to scrutinise Business Council's 'Climate Policy Obstruction'

  190. Equinor

    Equinor poised to pressure lobbyists undermining climate action

  191. Gas

    Labor ‘captured’ by gas industry

  192. Media release

    Rio Tinto Industry Association commitment

  193. Shell

    Media comment: Shell’s industry association review fails Australia

  194. Social Risk Report

    New ACCR report finds decent work crucial to security of prescription drug supply

  195. Franchising Report

    Franchising report: investors must hold franchising companies accountable for widespread wage theft

  196. EPA

    Climate villains victorious in WA

  197. Santos and Woodside

    ACCR files shareholder resolutions to Santos and Woodside

  198. Santos

    Santos Climate Change Report 2019: reduce emissions by burning more gas

  199. Glencore

    Glencore declares ‘peak coal’

  200. Rocky Hill coal mine

    On the landmark Rocky Hill mine decision

  201. Banking Royal Commission

    Banking Royal Commission: regulators must overcome ‘catastrophic impotence’

  202. NAB

    Ken Henry calls out Business Council on climate; refuses to rule out Bight oil and gas projects

  203. IPCC

    Investors call for Australia to close coal power by 2030

  204. BHP

    Has BHP Chosen Coal Over Coral?

  205. NAB

    NAB commits to reviewing lobby's role in climate and energy

  206. Origin

    Origin Energy AGM: record 46% vote slams anti-climate lobby

  207. Westpac

    Westpac to scrutinise Business Council of Australia’s climate lobbying

  208. IPCC

    ACCR to increase shareholder activism after IPCC report

  209. ASIC

    ASIC report proves investors must step up on climate risk

  210. Origin

    Shareholders challenge Origin consent under UN principles

  211. Qantas

    Airlines at risk of engaging in human rights abuses as more asylum seekers and refugees await removal to Sri Lanka

  212. Qantas

    Qantas responds to deportations to danger - out of step with investors and international law

  213. Qantas

    Qantas to face shareholders at AGM - deportations to danger

  214. Qantas

    ACCR to file shareholder resolution calling on Qantas to end deportations to danger

  215. Qantas

    Shareholder action under consideration over Qantas’ position on asylum and refugee deportation

  216. Gender Report

    Gender pay equity: ASX 100 companies rated

  217. Minerals Council of Australia

    Minerals Council’s coal projections at odds with Paris Agreement

  218. Paris Agreement

    Investors have a key role to play in the energy debate

  219. Media release

    Rio Tinto: 18% vote against coal lobby

  220. Rio Tinto

    Shareholder revolt at Rio Tinto’s London AGM over “outright climate hypocrisy”

  221. BHP

    BHP to remain in the US Chamber of Commerce

  222. BHP

    BHP risks investor blowback through association with Canavan’s fossil fuels-friendly taskforce

  223. Media release

    Response to MCA’s updated energy policy

  224. Media release

    Rio Tinto decision not to allow the resolution to be heard at the UK AGM

  225. Rio Tinto

    Global investors worth AU$84 billion line up against coal lobbying: Rio resolution

  226. Minerals Council of Australia

    BHP and MCA at loggerheads on coal, again

  227. BHP

    ACCR's lines on BHP review

  228. BHP

    The Minerals Council of Australia strikes again – kills off Clean Energy Target in Australia

  229. BHP

    Minerals Council membership on the chopping block at BHP AGM tomorrow

  230. BHP

    BHP’s millions for Minerals Council speak louder than words

  231. BHP

    BHP AGM: UK investors face-to-face with Australia’s ‘decade of climate and energy policy chaos’

  232. BHP

    $430 billion CalPERS to support BHP shareholder resolution at UK AGM

  233. Minerals Council of Australia

    Brendan Pearson's resignation as CEO of the Minerals Council of Australia

  234. BHP

    BHP shareholder resolution requests end to relationship with Minerals Council of Australia

  235. BHP

    BHP responds to shareholder concerns about the Minerals Council of Australia