Liberals all talk, no action on climate

Tasmanian Labor
  • Gutwein talks a big game, but has failed to act
  • If climate change is a ‘high priority’ where’s the ministry?
  • Climate change is a policy priority for Labor
  • The Liberals’ commitment to action on climate change is questionable.

    Shadow Minister for Climate Change Alison Standen said it’s only since winning the fight for the top job that action on climate change has become a ‘high priority’ for the new Premier.

    “Peter Gutwein says the government must do more on climate change and he’s right.

    “The Liberals haven’t even placed enough priority on climate change to create a ministry. Instead it’s been wedged into the Environment portfolio.

    “Peter Gutwein holds that portfolio, and Elise Archer held it before him. Both of them managed it ‘off the side of their desk’ while distracted by issues in their other portfolios, failing to take real action or show leadership on climate change.”

    Ms Standen said an example of inaction is the failure to enact changes to Tasmania’s Climate Change Act, which sets the Tasmanian Government’s legislative framework for action on climate change.

    “Public consultation on the proposed changes closed more than two months ago, but Peter Gutwein has been silent on what happens next.”

    Ms Standen said climate change is a policy priority for Labor.

    “Labor acknowledges that climate change is having environmental, social and economic impacts that cannot be ignored, and we all have a role to play in mitigating its effects.

    “We need to support our communities and businesses adapt to the risks presented by climate change, to ensure a just transition as new jobs are created in new industries.

    “That’s why Labor is a strong supporter of investment in more renewable energy, including the Robbins Island wind farm, provided it clears the strictest environmental and planning approvals. We have been vocal in our calls for Tasmania to be a leader in green hydrogen generation.

    “These initiatives would not only help Tasmania play its role in combating climate change, they would also create new jobs.

    “Our climate policy will restore a Minister for Climate Change and we call on the new Premier Peter Gutwein to establish this ministry as he structures his new cabinet.”

    Alison Standen

    Shadow Minister for Climate Change

    /Public Release. View in full here.