The government says it is drafting new climate laws. But what we know about their Emissions Reduction Fund shows it will do little to help Australia cut pollution.

Despite its failure to produce an alternative, the government is placing pressure on the ALP, the Greens, and independent senators and MPs to sign off on a 'kill bill' for our existing laws. This bill, if passed, will get rid of the carbon price, the independent adviser on climate policy (the Climate Change Authority) and the legislated limit on greenhouse gas pollution.

Senator Nick Xenophon: believes existing climate change laws must not be repealed before laws as or or better exist with which to replace them. Credit:Penny Bradfield

Fortunately, it seems likely the bill will not pass the Senate. To their credit, the ALP, Greens and Senator Nick Xenophon have agreed Australia's existing laws must not be repealed before laws as good or better exist with which to replace them.

The Coalition's moves to repeal the existing climate laws are not driven by good policy analysis. The carbon tax is not killing the economy, which is showing strong growth. It is not responsible for increases in electricity prices; indeed, electricity retailers have suggested that its repeal will not result in lower power bills .