I’m not surprised that eight in ten Australians (81%) are concerned about climate change resulting in more droughts and flooding, as discovered in the annual ‘Climate of the Nation’ benchmark report which was released today by The Australia Institute.
The report has tracked Australian attitudes on climate change for over a decade and found that South Australians are more concerned about climate change than the national average, particularly in relation to water shortages, extreme weather and poor crop production.
Thankfully South Australians know that climate change is real and happening, unlike Minister for Water, Drought and Natural Disasters David Littleproud, who today said he doesn't "know if climate change is manmade".
This gross ignorance today from the Minister makes it clearer than ever that the government does not represent South Australians.
The report also found:
- 73% of South Australians agree that the Government should plan for the orderly phase out of coal.
- Two-thirds (67%) agree Australia should set targets and take action to limit global warming to 1.5-2 degrees.
- SA’s top preferred energy sources are solar, wind and power storage batteries.
That's why, next Friday the 20th, I will be out with thousands of South Australians demanding climate justice at Global Climate Strike. Our school kids have led the way, and it's time for the government to listen and ensure they have a future on a healthy, sustainable planet.
It's clear that here in South Australia, we want strong action on climate change. The Labor and Liberal parties cannot continue to ignore us and the concerns of the overwhelming majority of Australians.
We are in a global race against time – that's why I'm in Canberra fighting for politicians to take serious action before it's too late.
