Why we care: 

Our current dependence on fossil fuels is unsustainable and will be disastrous for both the environment and the economy. To avert such undesirable consequences and protect our lives and livelihoods, we must swiftly transition to a low carbon economy. 

As a rich country with one of the highest per capita emissions, Australia must join the international effort to limit the rise in global average temperature to 2°C. Workers affected by the transition should not be left behind. New jobs must be created in regional areas to ensure a just transition.

Given recent improvements in the technological efficiency and cost reductions of solar, wind, batteries, and pumped hydroelectricity, we do not see any reason to continue to subsidise developments in coal or gas. Reform in this area is both ethical and a smart investment. 

We support:

• A goal of net-zero emissions for Australia by 2040.
• A market-based price on greenhouse gas emissions.
• A moratorium on new coal mines and gas fracking. 
• An end to subsidies for the fossil fuel industry.
• Assistance to workers in the coal and gas industries so that they can re-train and relocate. 
• Lowering barriers to the adoption of electric vehicles in Australia.