One of Australia’s closest security partners, the United Kingdom is increasingly treating climate change and nature loss as threats to security, economic stability and societal resilience.
In January 2026, the UK Government released part of a national security assessment warning that ecosystem degradation threatens food and water security, supply chains and economic stability, and could contribute to political instability and conflict. It concluded that every critical ecosystem examined is on a pathway towards collapse if current trends continue.
The UK has since established its first dedicated Climate Security Taskforce, bringing together security, military and academic expertise to assess threats, identify gaps in preparedness and recommend action.
Has the penny finally dropped on the scale of the climate-security threat — and what needs to happen next?
Professor Rear Admiral Neil Morisetti will examine the UK’s emerging approach and the gap between recognising a threat and preparing for it. Moderated by Emily Rice, the discussion will also consider what Australia can learn from the UK’s experience.
8th October 7pm AEDT
[ Register now ] to join the live briefing and Q&A.
Professor Rear Admiral Neil Morisetti CB RN (Retd)
Professor Neil Morisetti is Professor of Climate and Resource Security at University College London and a former UK Foreign Secretary’s Special Representative for Climate Change.
A former Royal Navy Rear Admiral, he brings together senior military, government and academic experience in climate and national security.
He is also an International Fellow of the Australian Security Leaders Climate Group and contributed the foreword to ASLCG’s Missing in Action: Responding to Australia’s Climate & Security Failure.
The Australian Security Leaders Climate Group (ASLCG) exists to reframe the climate narrative, making climate an immediate security priority. By assessing risks and acting in proportion to the threats, we secure greater protection locally and globally.