This is our chance to protect nature for generations.
Environment Minister Murray Watt has announced he’ll table new nature laws by the end of this year. With parliament only sitting a handful more times this year, these laws could be introduced in just a few weeks.
That means we’ve only got a precious few weeks left to influence the laws that will make or break nature for generations to come.
If the Albanese government gets this right, Australia’s priceless plants and animals will be protected and able to thrive, along with the livelihoods of the millions of Australians who depend on healthy nature. But if they get it wrong, dodgy corporations will be allowed to keep bulldozing, pushing more of our iconic and invaluable wildlife to extinction.
It is critical that people who love nature raise our voices now and tell the government that they need to protect nature by delivering laws that:
- Set strong rules for nature protection. By getting the rules right, we can protect the homes of threatened animals and the livelihoods that depend on nature thriving.
- Establish an independent Environment Protection Agency (EPA). To make sure the rules are enforced, allowing communities to speak up and keep political interference out of decision-making. A well-resourced and impartial EPA will ensure Australia makes the best science-based decisions for nature and people.
- Close deforestation loopholes. Industry must be prevented from getting a free pass to bulldoze Australia’s forests and woodlands.
- Factor climate harm into all decisions. Ensure communities and wildlife are protected from mounting reef bleaching, algae blooms, and extreme fires and floods that are being turbocharged by burning coal and gas.
Tips for writing your message:
- Briefly introduce yourself, including your name and where you live (so your elected representative knows you live in the area they are responsible for). You might like to also briefly say a little about who you are e.g. a young person, a person of faith, a local community group member, a teacher, a parent, a bushwalker.
- Explain your concern—identify clearly the issue that you wish to address. Remember, MPs and Senators have to be informed about a lot of issues. So be clear on what you are talking about! Then explain why you are concerned about or interested in this issue.
- Ask your MP to take action. Tell them clearly and respectfully that you would like them to deliver strong and enforceable nature laws that protect the people, places and wildlife that we love.
- Thank them and sign off.