Commenting on the Federal Government’s plan to use public funds to expand the gas sector as part of its economic recovery plan, Oxfam Australia Chief Executive Lyn Morgain said:
“The Prime Minister’s deeply concerning move to put gas, a fossil fuel, at the centre of our recovery from COVID-19 is a serious betrayal of our Pacific neighbours, whose very existence depends on us taking serious action against climate change.
“This reckless climate policy will have serious consequences for those in our neighbourhood who are most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
“Expanding Australia’s gas industry would yet again increase our emissions and undermine global climate action. It risks failing not only to meet immediate needs but also imposing a crippling burden on future generations here at home and around the world – in the form of climate damage, stranded assets, fewer jobs and big debts.
“A briefing paper released by Oxfam in July, Australia’s energy future & the recovery from COVID-19, showed gas was a very unstable foundation on which to rebuild an economy and build a better future.
“In the face of the twin challenges of economic recovery and the climate crisis, there is a now a once in a generation opportunity to stabilise and strengthen the Australian economy while also tackling climate change by investing in renewable energies. This would not only protect our environment but provide much-needed employment for Australians.
“Oxfam is urging the Government to invest in economic stimulus measures that accelerate the transformation of our energy system to being powered by renewable energy.”
For interviews or more information, please contact Lily Partland on 0418 118 687 or lilyp@oxfam.org.au
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