Bushfire Survivors urge Kristy McBain to be a strong climate voice in Parliament

Bushfire Survivors for Climate Action

Bushfire Survivors urge new Eden-Monaro member to be a strong climate voice in Parliament

BUSHFIRE SURVIVORS have called on Kristy McBain to be a strong advocate for ambitious climate action and a rapid transition away from fossil fuels following her win in the Eden-Monaro by-election.

“Kristy McBain has acknowledged the science around climate change, and promised to make bushfire recovery a key focus area if elected. As the next bushfire season is fast approaching, and much of Eastern Australia remains in drought, we’re keen to see these campaign promises become real action,” said Jo Dodds, President, Bushfire Survivors for Climate Action.

“Climate change exacerbated the Black Summer bushfires, and continues to increase bushfire danger in the region. If we want to stop bushfires from worsening here, we have to stop digging up and burning coal, oil, and gas.

“To deliver an effective bushfire recovery and safe future for bushfire survivors, Kristy McBain must speak out against coal and gas projects in Federal parliament, and call for a rapid transition to a zero emissions, renewables-powered economy—as must all parties,” said Ms Dodds.

Bushfire survivor Lisa Roberts, who lost her family home and business in Wandella, said: “While advocacy to help families like ours rebuild after the fires is certainly welcome, it has to be accompanied by a strong position on climate change.

“There is little point in pushing for more funding and support for bushfire survivors with one hand, and remaining silent on new coal and gas projects, which will only increase future fire danger, with the other.

“A safe and prosperous future for our community requires a safe and stable climate. That’s what we want to see our new elected representative fighting for in Parliament,” said Ms Roberts.

/Public Release.