Tick the youth box with climate change

Governments are elected to make decisions based on the best research and best advice, which the community may not have access to. It is the government’s responsibility to act upon this advice, all of which points to immediate action to cut carbon emissions and invest in developing renewable energy.

Second, Gillard’s plan for a national energy efficiency policy is hardly the decisive, hard-hitting climate policy Australia needs. It is necessary and definitely a step in the right direction, but it does not go nearly far enough in cutting Australia’s carbon emissions. Furthermore, it puts the onus on individuals rather than big polluters.

Finally, the refusal to implement a price on carbon has left young people yet again questioning when their government will invest in long term and sustainable reform. A price on carbon is the only way we can sustainably shift our economy away from carbon and towards renewables in a way that holds big polluters responsible. Young Australians understand both the economic and environmental implications of delaying decisive action and are rapidly turning elsewhere for leadership as the latest Herald/Nielsen polls suggest.

One in every 5 votes this election will come from young Australians who are concerned about their future. While the CPRS was not the complete solution, Rudd shelving the plan was seen as symbolic of a back flip on his commitments to climate change. Young Australians turned rapidly away from Rudd looking towards Gillard for potential leadership, but, so far, Labor policy and the weak commitments of the Coalition are looking remarkably similar.

If Gillard wants to secure the youth vote this election, Labor needs to present a comprehensive plan to tackle climate change. Young Australians are aware of the need for immediate action and are tired of political rhetoric and endless delays.