Unlocking Climate Action: Albanese’s Opportunity to Lead with a Labor Majority

The Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) has welcomed Murray Watt as the new Minister for Environment and Water. This appointment comes at a crucial time when Australia’s nature laws are in dire need of reform.

ACF CEO Kelly O’Shanassy praised Watt, highlighting the urgent need to address the country’s environmental issues. “We must protect nature because it protects us,” she stated. Clean air, water, and fertile land are vital for our survival and well-being.

Australia’s natural environment is under severe stress, and current national laws are ineffective. The Albanese government promised to revamp these laws during the 2022 election, but progress has stalled. O’Shanassy emphasized that delays must end, urging the government to act swiftly on these much-needed reforms.

Additively, Chris Bowen remains in his role as Climate and Energy Minister, a position that many believe is essential for Australia’s transition to renewable energy. Recent statistics reveal that Australia is on track to achieve nearly 50% renewable electricity, a significant step towards its goal of 100%. This shift is critical as voters showed strong support for renewable solutions in the 2025 election.

For Australia to effectively host a climate conference next year, the government must halt any new approvals for coal and gas projects. Each new mine presents a risk, contributing to climate change and more dramatic weather events.

Watt’s background as a former Agriculture Minister could foster collaboration in addressing environmental and agricultural challenges. With farmers managing over half of Australia’s land, they play a crucial role in protecting nature. Healthy ecosystems are not only important for biodiversity but also for the agricultural sector itself, which relies heavily on a balanced environment.

The ACF looks forward to working closely with the government on these pressing issues, emphasizing that true cooperation is essential to overcome the environmental challenges facing Australia today.

For more information on the intersection of nature and agriculture, check this insightful [report on Australia’s nature-based economy](https://pollinationgroup.com/global-perspectives/the-nature-based-economy-how-australias-prosperity-depends-on-nature/).

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