Media Release

The Community Protection Pledge includes commitments to accelerating emissions reductions to address the root cause of climate change and worsening extreme weather; implementing all 80 recommendations of the Bushfire Royal Commission; and investing in disaster preparedness for communities.

“Australians have suffered back-to-back extreme weather events including drought, bushfires, floods, and storms. As climate change makes these events more frequent and severe, many communities don’t get a chance to recover from one disaster before the next one strikes,” said Mary Barry, former CEO, Victoria’s State Emergency Service.

“Decades of inaction have locked in unavoidable climate change impacts. Our elected leaders have a responsibility to ensure communities can cope with worsening extreme weather, and address the root cause of the climate crisis,” she said.

Community members can log on to emergencyleadersforclimateaction.org.au/community-protection-pledge to see whether their MP has signed the pledge. They can send an email to thank their MPs if they have signed, and urge them to do so if they haven’t.

Jim Smith, former Commissioner, NSW State Emergency Service, added: “The science is clear that climate change is fuelling worsening extreme weather, and experts have advised on how to prepare for future events through investigations such as the Bushfire Royal Commission —it’s time our elected leaders acted on this advice.”

“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their homes and communities and our elected representatives have a responsibility to take our well-being seriously. All Federal MPs should sign the Community Protection Pledge, or face being held accountable by their constituents,” said Mr Smith.

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