Wednesday, 4 August 2021

Climate change

Mr FOWLES (Burwood) (10:01): I rise to draw the house’s attention to the vitally important work of the Andrews Labor government to reduce emissions, futureproof our state’s economy and create secure jobs through our climate change strategy. Underpinning the strategy are ambitious but achievable emission reduction targets of 28 to 33 per cent by 2025 and 45 to 50 per cent by 2030, on the way to net zero emissions by 2050, putting Victoria at the forefront of climate change action nationally and internationally.

I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Lynn Frankes and Charles Jones from the non-partisan environmental action group Lighter Footprints to discuss their concerns regarding climate change. As a frequent attendee of their events, I would like to acknowledge and commend their efforts in advancing climate policy. The science is clear: climate change is happening, but there are choices to be made in how we respond. The Andrews government is listening to the science and acting now. Our strategy sets a course to move to affordable renewable energy sources, protect our environment, boost sustainable investment and create jobs. We have also set a target for zero-emissions vehicles to make up 50 per cent of all new light vehicle sales by 2030, with grants of up to $3000 to help Victorians buy one of these cars. And we continue to make it easy for more home owners to go solar, providing both rebates and interest-free loans which help a typical household save $890 a year with panels and a further $640 with a battery. This decade is crucial in creating lasting change, and I am enormously proud to be part of a government that pushes for environmental reforms that will truly benefit future generations.