Fellow Australians, as we approach the 2025 Federal election, it’s time to talk about something that will affect every single one of us: climate change. This isn’t just about polar bears and melting ice caps anymore; it’s about our national security, our economy, and the future we want to build for our children. The science is clear, and the evidence is all around us – from more intense bushfires, to devastating floods, and rising sea levels. Ignoring climate change is not an option; we need a government that understands the gravity of the situation and is ready to act decisively.
Climate Change: A Threat Multiplier
The sources highlight that climate change is not merely an environmental issue; it's a "threat multiplier" that exacerbates existing vulnerabilities and reshapes geopolitical dynamics. It directly impacts our defence capabilities, regional relationships, and economic stability. We can't afford to treat it as an afterthought.
- National Security at Risk: Climate change is a direct threat to our national security, impacting military readiness, regional relationships, and geopolitical standing. The Australian Defence Force (ADF) must prepare for increased disaster relief demands, changing operational environments due to extreme weather, and reduced energy security.
- Pacific Island Nations in Peril: Our neighbours in the Pacific face an existential threat from rising sea levels, with the potential for entire landmasses to be submerged. The sources show that these nations view climate change as their greatest security challenge and are critical of Australia's perceived inaction. This perception has damaged our relationships, eroded trust, and increased their vulnerability to influence from other players, such as China.
- Erosion of Regional Influence: Australia’s relatively poor climate goals and performance have put Pacific nations offside, undermining our strategic influence in the region. We risk losing the support of key allies, which is crucial for forward basing and conflict scenarios.
Strategic and Tactical Priorities for a Secure Future
To navigate these challenges, we need a clear plan that addresses both the strategic and tactical aspects of climate change. According to the sources, this involves:
- Regional Leadership: Australia must take a leading role in climate security, demonstrating a commitment to climate action and amplifying the voices of Pacific Island nations. This is crucial for rebuilding trust, maintaining relationships, and countering China’s growing influence.
- Integrating Climate Security: Climate change needs to be integrated into all aspects of national security planning, not treated as an isolated issue. This requires a comprehensive approach, including a climate intelligence working group to better assess climate security threats and advise the government.
- Investing in Green Technology: Transitioning to renewable energy is essential for the ADF, aiming to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, enhance energy resilience, and lower emissions. This includes utilising solar installations and adopting electric or hybrid vehicles.
- Adapting to Changing Environments: The ADF must prepare for more frequent extreme weather events, including natural disasters, extreme temperatures, and rising sea levels. This includes adapting training and operations, and improving disaster response capabilities.
- Reducing Emissions: The ADF needs to reduce its carbon footprint through energy efficiency measures, renewable energy sources, and low-carbon fuels. This will not only help the environment but also enhance operational resilience and cut costs.
The Strategic Advantages of Climate Action
Embracing climate action isn't just about mitigating risks; it's about seizing opportunities. The sources point to several strategic advantages:
- Enhanced Defence Capabilities: Investing in green technologies can give the ADF a strategic advantage, improving operational resilience, reducing reliance on fuel, and enabling quieter movement.
- Improved Diplomatic Standing: By demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing climate change, Australia can position itself as a leader in the region, rebuilding trust with Pacific nations and enhancing its diplomatic standing.
- Countering Chinese Influence: Taking decisive action on climate change can counter China’s narrative, which has exploited Australia's poor climate record to undermine our regional influence.
- Alignment with Allies: Many of Australia's allies, such as the UK, US, and New Zealand, have released strategic documents outlining their approaches to climate change and green technologies. By aligning with them, we can strengthen defence and diplomatic ties.
Peter Dutton's Voting Record: A Cause for Concern
Unfortunately, not all political leaders are equally committed to addressing climate change. The voting record of Peter Dutton MP reveals a consistent pattern of voting against measures aimed at addressing climate change and supporting renewable energy.
- Against Climate Action: Dutton has consistently voted against a carbon price, net-zero emissions targets, increased investment in renewable energy, and the Paris Climate Agreement.
- Potential Conflict: This record underscores a potential conflict with the strategic direction advocated by the other sources that emphasise urgent action on climate change and a shift towards green technologies.
This raises serious questions about whether a government led by Peter Dutton would take the necessary steps to secure Australia’s future in the face of climate change. His voting record suggests a reluctance to embrace the changes needed to protect our environment, our economy, and our national security.
A Call to Action
As we head to the polls in 2025, it’s time to make an informed choice. We need leaders who understand the challenges posed by climate change and are ready to act decisively. We need leaders who prioritise the security and prosperity of all Australians, not just those with vested interests in the fossil fuel industry.
Climate action is not just an environmental imperative; it is a strategic necessity. It’s about building a stronger, more resilient Australia that can thrive in a changing world. Let’s choose a future where we protect our environment, strengthen our defence, and build a prosperous economy powered by clean energy. Let's vote for climate action in 2025.
Sources:
https://www.aspistrategist.org.au/climate-security-an-opportunity-in-australias-regional-strategy/
https://theforge.defence.gov.au/article/climate-and-australias-national-security
https://theyvoteforyou.org.au/people/representatives/dickson/peter_dutton
