A new survey released by Australian research organization NCLS Research and Christian advocacy movement Common Grace found that many Australian Christians who participated expressed concern about climate change and reported already taking practical steps to address it, including reducing household energy use, installing solar panels and engaging in civic advocacy.
The Climate Action Survey of Australian Christians, based on responses from more than 1,100 participants in late 2025, examined attitudes toward climate change, support for various climate-related policies and technologies, and the kinds of actions Christians say they are taking individually and through churches.
The findings offer a snapshot of climate engagement among a segment of Australian Christians at a time when environmental issues continue to shape political, economic and theological debates across many churches globally.
Researchers cautioned that the survey was not representative of the broader Australian church population. According to the report, participants disproportionately consisted of highly educated Christians and were largely from Protestant backgrounds.
Even so, the report said the data provides insight into what encourages or discourages climate-related engagement among churchgoers already interested in the issue.
According to the survey, nearly all respondents reported taking some form of consumer action connected to climate concerns. About nine in 10 said they had reduced energy use or undertaken measures such as installing solar power. Around seven in 10 reported participating in civic actions including voting, advocacy or discussing climate issues with family and friends.
The study also explored support for climate-related policy approaches and what respondents viewed as barriers to further action.
In comments released alongside the report, Common Grace National Director Gershon Nimbalker said many Christians involved in climate discussions are looking for practical ways to respond.
“This research confirms what we’re seeing across the Church and in our movement as well — many Christians care deeply about God’s creation and want to live out Jesus’ love in ways that ensure that their children, their communities and our global neighbours flourish,” Nimbalker said.
He added that many Christians are asking whether their actions can make a difference and whether others in the church share similar concerns.
Common Grace, which describes itself as a Christian movement focused on social justice issues, used the release of the report to renew its support for a proposed 25% levy on Australian gas exports. The organization said such a policy could help address cost-of-living pressures and fund public services, though the survey itself focused more broadly on attitudes and participation related to climate action.
The approximately 40-question survey covered demographics, beliefs about climate change, support for climate solutions, personal and church-based actions, and perceived barriers preventing greater involvement.
The report forms part of broader discussions within Australian churches over environmental stewardship, fossil fuels and renewable energy. Christian groups in Australia, as in other countries, remain divided on how climate policy should intersect with theology, economics and public policy.
NCLS Research, known for its long-running National Church Life Survey, describes itself as a research organization focused on church life, spirituality and community wellbeing. The organization said the climate survey was commissioned to help build a research base for understanding Christian engagement with climate-related issues in Australia.
