Labor victory must mark turning point for climate and health 

The Climate and Health Alliance (CAHA) calls for stronger, more ambitious climate and health policy as the Albanese Labor Government wins a second term.

In their first term of government, Labor delivered landmark progress on climate and health with the publication of the National Health and Climate Strategy. At the same time, we continued to see the 30+ fossil fuel projects approved, contributing to worse climate and health outcomes in Australia.

We congratulate the Labor government on their re-election and acknowledge the important progress made in their first term, including the release of Australia’s first National Health and Climate Strategy. But progress on paper must be matched by ambitious action. In this second term, we urge the government to raise its ambition – to deliver policies that protect health and invest in a healthy, regenerative and just future.

The health impacts of climate change, from increasing extreme weather events to the mental health toll, are already being felt across Australia. The new government must act swiftly to embed Health in All Policies and rapidly cut emissions.

We know that a thriving climate underpins good health. That means cutting emissions this decade in line with the best science, preparing health systems for climate impacts, and ensuring our communities are safe, healthy and resilient.

We also encourage the Labor Government to work with the cross bench and civil society to drive stronger, more equitable outcomes on climate and health as the window for action narrows and communities are feeling the impacts.

This term of government is an opportunity to lead – not to become complacent.

The public mandate demonstrates what Australia wants: A healthy, regenerative and just future for all.

Media contact:

Layla Humphreys (Policy and Communications Coordinator)
[email protected]
0435347085