Australia's top scientist is set to head a task force on monitoring the country's methane levels as part of an emissions reduction push.
Chief scientist Cathy Foley has been appointed by the federal government to lead an expert panel on making the monitoring of emissions into the atmosphere, such as methane, more accurate.
The expert panel has been created following recommendations published by the Climate Change Authority in its review of the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting scheme.
The report, which was released in late 2023, made 25 recommendations for the scheme, which is the national framework for how greenhouse gas emissions are reported.
The task force will look at new approaches to measure the amount of methane being released to ensure climate change data is accurate.
Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen said the panel's work would be critical as part of work to reduce emissions.
"The Climate Change Authority has found Australia's emissions reporting scheme is performing well and supporting Australia's net-zero transformation delivery," he said.
"Methane is among the world's most powerful greenhouse gases. It is essential that our measurement approaches continue to improve, based on sound science and expert analysis."
The federal government has agreed to 24 of the 25 recommendations outlined in the authority's report.
The report said while the emissions reporting scheme was working well, it needed changes to make sure it was fit for the future.
"The emissions and energy data needs of both the government and the public are growing," the report said.
"Enhancing the accessibility and transparency of the data would provide many benefits."
Mr Bowen said the work would help to make sure Australia could reach its emissions reduction targets.
"Technologies provide additional opportunities for increased accuracy and integrity consistent with Paris Agreement emission reporting rules," he said.
"By listening to the expert advice, we are ensuring Australia remains a world leader in emission estimation, which is crucial to delivering emissions reductions as well as unlocking our potential as a renewable energy superpower."
