Australian parents celebrate action from NSW, while waiting for Morrison Government to step up

The NSW Government announcement that it is increasing its carbon emissions reduction target to 50% by 2030 is a welcome sign for parents and families across Australia calling for stronger climate action from the state and federal governments.

Following the announcement, Australian Parents for Climate Action (AP4CA) CEO, Nic Seton, said, “We celebrate near-term action to reduce carbon pollution and we call on the Morrison Government to follow NSW’s lead. Australian families and children deserve a safe climate and that means slashing carbon emissions this decade.

“We commend NSW for showing leadership alongside the other states and territories, especially ahead of the international climate talks in Glasgow next month, with scientists calling for urgent action this decade. Now the Morrison Government needs to get a move on setting strong targets for this decade if we’re going to match our international allies.

“After the terror of fires near our home in Sydney and months of aching smoke, I’m excited to see my home state step up and I want the Morrison Government to do the same. Climate impacts are affecting my kids’ health and that’s not something you can put a price on. We do what it takes on COVID and we need to listen to the experts on climate action too.”

“Australia could become a world leader in renewable energy and Australian families stand to benefit from acting now, before we get left behind in the global transition.”

The NSW State Government has already supported AP4CA’s Solar Our Schools campaign and is implementing Renewable Energy Zones – to be rolled out in New England, the Central West, South West, Hunter Central Coast and Illawarra.

Tamworth mother and AP4CA member Tessa Rainbird said, “The New England Renewable Energy Zone the NSW Government has announced will provide massive economic benefit for our area. If we don’t act now and embrace a transition economy, then regions like ours really may be at risk of becoming a technological and economic backwater. My kids’ future will be impacted.”