Labor’s Missed Opportunity: Why Lack of Funding and Strategy on Climate Action Matters

The ACT Greens are concerned about Labor’s slow progress on climate change and nature restoration. They believe efforts that were once active have stalled.

During a recent questioning in Budget Estimates, it became clear that the ACT Labor Minister for Climate Change is lacking a clear vision. Greens Leader Shane Rattenbury pointed out that to show genuine commitment to climate action, Labor should advance the next ACT Climate Change Strategy, especially since the current one expires this year.

“This new strategy should be nearly ready, but the Minister didn’t have any updates to share,” Rattenbury said. “At the end of my term as Minister, I directed preparations for the new strategy for the next Minister to consider. It typically takes about a year to complete the process, so the delay is puzzling.”

Arnagretta Hunter, Head of the ACT Climate Change Council, emphasized the need for Canberra to prepare for extreme weather events, highlighting the necessity of resilience against future challenges.

While Labor promised ‘no backwards steps’ on climate issues during the election, it seems they might not be moving forward either. Greens Deputy Leader Jo Clay expressed worry that environmental concerns are not a priority for Labor. She noted that without proper investments, the green spaces that contribute to Canberra’s charm for people and wildlife are at risk.

“Environment funding is clearly at the bottom of Labor’s priorities,” she said. Recent findings from the ACT’s Commissioner for Sustainability and Environment highlighted the “demonstrably inadequate” environmental funding from the government. This raises serious questions about whether biodiversity protection is genuine.

Surveys show that a growing number of residents are calling for improved environmental measures. Many feel that without community support and action, key natural areas will continue to decline. Clay added, “Organizations that help maintain Canberra’s green spaces are crucial for community well-being, yet the funding they need is lacking.”

The Greens continue to push for better environmental policies from the sidelines, effectively leading initiatives like setting an urban growth boundary and protecting endangered species. Despite their efforts, the effectiveness of the current government’s environmental policies leaves much to be desired.

As climate concerns grow globally, Canberra’s response will be critical. The need for stronger action and commitment is not just a political debate—it’s a matter of community health and environmental survival.

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