Six industry groups are calling on the Victorian government to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while ensuring a fair transition for the workers, communities and industries affected.  

The groups, which represent small and large businesses, investors, workers and the vulnerable, released a joint policy statement on Wednesday to transition Victoria to a “zero emissions economy and society”.

It comes as the state swelters through what could be a record-breaking heatwave.

“Climate change poses a major threat to the Victorian community, economy and each of the sectors we represent,” the policy reads.

“Victoria is already living with the impacts of 1C of warming above pre-industrial levels, causing more frequent and extreme droughts, bushfires and heatwaves.

“These events cost lives, disproportionately impact vulnerable people and communities, damage infrastructure and ecosystems, and increase costs to businesses and governments.”

They call on the Andrews Labor government, which has already set a target of net-zero emissions by 2050, to establish an independent authority to lead the transition.

Decarbonising the energy sector – the biggest contributor to Victorian emissions – “will inevitably be a priority” but should be balanced with job creation, the policy states.

Support should also be provided to communities, organisations and businesses to build resilience and adapt to new weather extremes and climatic conditions.

Mark Stone, chief executive of the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said without a plan to tackle climate change, businesses and workers will be left exposed.

“Local innovation, investment and a carefully managed transition will be vital if we are to successfully tackle climate change and secure business interests, jobs and sustainable and inclusive prosperity,” he said.

The groups agree Australia needs a national approach to climate change which is aligned with the objectives of the Paris Agreement.