Australia is at a crucial juncture for its environmental future. The Albanese Government has pledged to reform the country’s broken nature laws, but these vital changes are now at risk. Facing immense pressure from mining lobbyists, there is a serious threat that the proposed reforms could be significantly weakened.
The next few days are pivotal. The Albanese Government is negotiating the future of these long-awaited reforms, which include the establishment of a stronger Environment Protection Agency (EPA). This agency is essential for enforcing new legislation aimed at protecting and restoring Australia’s oceans and wildlife. However, the influence of corporate interests is pushing for a weakened EPA that would fail to effectively address environmental wrongdoing.
The situation is critical. Australia’s oceans and wildlife need a robust EPA to ensure effective regulation and enforcement. With the government deep in negotiations, it is crucial that Prime Minister Albanese and his team hear a clear message from the public: resist the pressure from mining and industry lobbyists, and commit to a deal that truly safeguards our environment.
While mining interests are lobbying for a compromise that would undermine the EPA’s effectiveness, alternative proposals from the cross-bench and the Greens offer a promising path toward a stronger outcome for nature. These proposals advocate for meaningful reforms that will enhance environmental protection and address long-standing issues.
To make a difference, it is essential for Government Cabinet Ministers to hear from concerned citizens today and Monday. Contacting them during their office hours will ensure that your voice is heard, reinforcing the community's demand for a strong stance against industry pressure and for a commitment to protecting Australia’s natural heritage.
Your participation is vital. Urge your representatives to support a robust EPA and comprehensive environmental reforms that will benefit our environment now and for future generations.
With these laws in parliament now, we need you to call one of these key Cabinet Ministers today to give them two clear messages:
1. Do not give in to pressure from the mining lobby to delay or weaken these reforms.
2. Work with the Senate cross-bench and Greens to negotiate a strong EPA with measures to stop nature destruction and help prevent climate harm.
What to say to their staff?
- My name is [your name], and I am calling from [where you live].
- I’m calling about the Nature Positive reforms. The Australian Labour Party must deliver the strongest bills for nature and an independent Environment Protection Agency.
- The government must work with the cross-bench and Greens to get this done.
- Please pass on my message to the Minister now.
Who to call?
Richard Marles
Deputy Prime Minister
02 6277 7800
Jim Chalmers
Treasurer
02 6277 7340
Patrick Gorman
Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister
02 6277 4995
Why call these Ministers?
Richard Marles (Deputy Prime Minister), Jim Chalmers (Treasurer), and Patrick Gorman (Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister) are key and influential cabinet members.
These three ministers are part of Anthony Albanese's inner circle. We need to ensure the Prime Minister is surrounded by voices in Cabinet advocating for strong nature laws.
We must persuade these influential figures to push for strong nature protection laws.
Other points to support your call:
- If a staffer suggests that this message be directed to the Environment Minister’s office, politely remind them that all cabinet ministers play a role in shaping Labor’s nature laws.
- Australians and our communities want to see our environment protected and do not support prioritising mining interests over the well-being of nature and the public.
- A staff member will likely answer your call. They are used to receiving these calls from the public and usually just take a message.
Sign the petition here!
(Information taken from: Alexia Wellbelove. Threatened Species Campaign Manager. Australian Marine Conservation Society)