Stressed, scared, overwhelmed: the election issues weighing on young Australian voters
GuardianAPR 8
Australia Election Issue: Climate Change
Above: Bleached and dead coral around Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef, located 270 kilometers (167 miles) north of the city of Cairns, on April 5, 2024. Image copyright: David Gray/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Australian Labor Party narrative
Labor’s climate plan boosts Australia’s future with a target of 82% renewable energy by 2030, creating over 1 million jobs and attracting $76 billion in investment. They've enshrined emissions targets into law, protected oceans and the Reef, expanded renewable projects powering 10 million homes, and delivered record water recovery for the Murray-Darling. Their approach promises cleaner energy, lower bills, thriving regions, and vital environmental protection.
Liberal/National Coalition narrative
The Coalition champions a practical, balanced energy future for Australia — combining renewables, gas, and zero-emissions nuclear to ensure cleaner, cheaper, and reliable power. With strong focus on community-led conservation and protection of natural treasures like the Great Barrier Reef, their approach supports everyday Australians while safeguarding the environment for future generations.
Australian Green Party narrative
While Labor and the Coalition offer piecemeal solutions to the climate crisis, neither has a truly comprehensive plan. Both continue to support fossil fuel development and fall short on bold action. The Greens, however, have consistently pushed for science-aligned targets, a halt on new coal and gas projects, and a massive shift to renewable energy. Their focus on holding polluters accountable, protecting communities, and creating green jobs shows they are the only party committed to real, lasting climate action.