This week’s Federal Budget was a blow to Queensland’s environment, with no new ideas to tackle climate change and no new money for the Great Barrier Reef.
Minister for Environment and the Great Barrier Reef Leeanne Enoch said it was disappointing to see no forward thinking from the Morrison Government, and zero plans to adequately protect the environment.
“The Palaszczuk Government is doing its part to tackle climate change. We have set ambitious targets including zero net emissions by 2050, and 50% renewable energy by 2030.
“But we know more action is needed at a national level.
“Leading up to the Budget, the Morrison Government announced $2 billion over 15 years for a re-badged Tony Abbott emissions reduction fund, but less than 10% of that has been allocated in the forward estimates.
“In his speech, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said only seven sentences on the environment, which reflects the Morrison Government’s complete lack of commitment in this space.”
Minister Enoch said science shows that climate change is the biggest threat to the Great Barrier Reef.
“The Palaszczuk Government recognises that we need to accelerate our efforts if we are going to ensure the Reef’s protection. I am astounded that there was no new funding for the Reef.
“On top of this, Queensland’s research institutes were also snubbed in the Budget.
“We saw $50 million allocated for new environmental research centres in Victoria and Western Australia. Queensland already has outstanding research facilities that do amazing work in climate and environment research, and it’s disappointing to see those institutions overlooked in the Federal Government’s environmental science announcements.”
Minister Enoch said environment groups have been expressing their concerns about the disappointing Budget.
Ms Enoch said the Budget also saw a lack of funding for waste programs that directly target industry.
“There is a groundswell of community support for better management of waste across Australia, and this requires national leadership.
“While we’re working on a draft waste management strategy for Queensland, the Federal Government is refusing to pull its weight in the war on waste at a national level.”