Climate bill paused to allow virus focus

Proposed laws for a national approach to addressing climate change have been shelved due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Independent MP Zali Steggall had been building public and political support for a bill to enshrine a long-term target of net zero emissions by 2050, five-yearly "carbon budgets" and an independent expert advisory body.

But the Sydney MP said on Tuesday the health crisis needed to take precedence.

"Our leaders need to focus on best preparation and response and the public need to be focused on looking out for each other and their own personal wellbeing," she said in a statement.

"Given the situation, I have decided to defer presentation of the Climate Change Bill from Monday March 23 to a later date."

She said the health crisis demonstrated just how interconnected the world is.

"There is real danger in disregarding science or in treating the environment with disdain."