Australia is preparing to go to the polls in what could be the “greenest” election in the nation’s history. Greens leader, Bob Brown, has already been dubbed a “kingmaker” as a hung Parliament or minority government is a possibility after the August 21 vote.
In Julia Gillard’s address to the nation on Saturday announcing the election, major spending for renewable energy was a major point:
“Moving forward means making record investments in solar power and other renewable energies to help us combat climate change and protect our quality of life. Instead of moving forward to tackle climate change, Mr Abbott is in climate change denial.” (Read more)
Australian Greens leader Bob Brown said, "This election is also about the Senate and a strong crossbench delivering better outcomes for Australians. The Greens are the responsible alternative to a deadlocked Abbott controlled Senate. The Greens will campaign strongly on environmental issues including climate change action, the creation of marine national parks, protecting native forests and wildlife and saving the Darling Downs farmlands from 40,000 coal seam gas drill holes and open cut coalmines." Read more
Opposition leader Tony Abbott’s statement on 2010 Federal Election also made reference to environmental issues.
“We’ll respect the environment because we only have one planet to live on. But you don’t help the environment by damaging the economy. We’ll reduce emissions in ways that help our farmers and establish a standing Green Army, 15,000 strong, to care for our country.” (Read more).
All major parties are expected to announce specifics in the coming days
