 The COVID-19 pandemic crisis has highlighted that we are not immune to large existential shocks. It also shows, however, that when we work together we have a far greater chance of overcoming shared global problems. As we hopefully succeed in meeting the current pandemic emergency, we will need to turn our attention again to the other pressing issues of our time. Beacons are a new initiative that enable Griffith to bring a whole-of-university approach in addressing critical societal problems. I'm Professor Brendan Mackey, Director of Griffith's Climate Action Beacon. This Climate Action Beacon tackles one of society's most pressing and disruptive challenges. We are and will continue to be faced with the impacts of a rapidly changing climate, including increasing temperatures, reduced rainfall in Southern Australia, rising sea levels and extreme climatic events such as heat waves and the mega-fire we recently experienced in Southeast Australia. Along with the risks and disruptions these bring to the health, resilience and vitality of our communities, economies and ecosystems. As the name suggests, the Climate Action Beacon is designed to enable Griffith University to help society in the critical challenge we face in rapidly transiting toward a net-zero emission and climate-resilient economy in society. The Beacon has been established to help provide the knowledge, tools and approaches that all sectors and communities need to make this challenge. The Climate Action Beacon is one expression of Griffith University's commitment to the environment and the sustainable development goals.