Abbott policies reduced effectiveness of foreign aid to combat climate change

Exclusive: Government report says change in priorities from 2013 saw a loss of expertise and project oversight

A decreased emphasis on climate change and cuts to the foreign aid budget under the Abbott government caused a loss of expertise, a lack of oversight and early closure of some projects, according to an internal government report.

Two-thirds of selected projects by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade achieved a modest or significant impact on climate outcomes, the evaluation said.