The safeguard mechanism has a significant flaw. It aims to gradually cut emissions but doesn’t keep an eye on new coal and gas projects. Instead of assessing each project, it lets polluters offset emissions with questionable benefits. The climate minister can only intervene after approval, which is not effective. Offsets can sit unused for years, especially those linked to land projects prone to drought and fire. Adding more coal and gas projects to the safeguard isn’t a real solution; it just gives them a free pass.
Many Australians, including myself, are urging the Albanese government to take stronger action to protect our environment. Labor has a history of safeguarding places like the Franklin River and the Daintree rainforest. Yet, Anthony Albanese has shifted focus, downplaying the climate consequences of his administration’s coal and gas permits. The irony is striking, and history will judge these choices harshly.
Currently, Labor is taking a short-sighted approach. Each fossil fuel approval jeopardizes our children’s future. Who stands to gain from this denial? Large corporations benefiting from quick returns and politicians aiming to avoid conflict before elections. In contrast, communities are left with empty promises of jobs and uncertain futures. First Nations custodians are again pressured to trade their sacred lands for temporary royalties. Our Pacific neighbors are watching their homelands sink while we increase exports. Younger generations see ambitious targets while facing everyday approvals that contradict them.
Much of the discussion surrounding this bill has focused solely on whether it will have a “climate trigger.” However, there are other ways to strengthen climate action. For instance, requiring full transparency about climate emissions, as suggested in Graeme Samuel’s independent review of the EPBC Act, could be beneficial. Verifying these numbers independently and allowing the environment minister to set limits on emissions when targets are at risk are essential steps. This isn’t radical; it’s sensible due diligence.
It’s not too late for the government to adjust its course. It could create a law that fully recognizes climate damage as environmental damage. This would allow proper measurement and action against it. Smart policy on renewable energy and community benefit-sharing is necessary as fossil fuel dependence decreases. It’s crucial to ensure that fossil fuels aren’t part of any expedited approval processes. Such a strategy can help reduce bills and pollution simultaneously while rebuilding trust with our Pacific neighbors.
Labor has a rich tradition of policies aimed at improving people’s lives. What is government for if not this? I hope that this legacy is revived and that the Albanese government makes a decisive shift. By aligning climate and nature in the EPBC Act, we can avoid undermining our goals. It’s time to prioritize the land over corporate interests and create a legacy that future Australians will appreciate.
Dr. Carmen Lawrence is a former Labor premier of Western Australia.
