The memory of what was a distinctly un-chilled summer may already have receded in some minds, but, according to polling data, that won't be the case come May 18.

The freakish summer - Australia's hottest on record - will be burnt into the minds of voters as they head to the ballot box for what many believe will be a federal election decided - more than any previously, at least - on climate policy.

Polls show that voter concern over climate change is the highest in more than a decade, and the window of time left to avert the worst disasters is fast closing.

Even in a traditionally conservative city like Orange, there's evidence concern about climate change has moved from the periphery of the community's consciousness to the centre - witness the proposed community-owned solar farm presently being debated.

Labor frontbencher Mark Butler, who on current polling may hold the climate change and energy portfolio within a month, says voters are increasingly clear that global warming "is real and it's manifesting now".

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After a punishing last two terms in government, Labor knows better than most that voter concern on climate change does not easily convert to viable and enduring policy.

Environment Minister Melissa Price has said the government "understand[s] Australians are concerned by climate change, and we've been taking action since we came to government".

The Coalition would cut emissions by 26 per cent on 2005 levels by 2030 in line with the Paris treaty - a goal Ms Price says is "responsible and achievable". Labor would go much further, setting targets of a 45 per cent emissions reduction and 50 per cent renewable energy by 2030.

Of concern for many is the belief public sentiment sits in staggering contrast to Australia's contribution to global climate efforts.

The nation's carbon emissions are rising, and the collapse in 2018 of the National Energy Guarantee was the latest in a string of epic fails by Parliament on reaching climate consensus.

Climate change advocates will be hoping public pressure for change does not cool with the temperatures ahead of the election.