MEDIA RELEASE
14 May 2018
Climate Election: Boothby candidates reveal their positions
A candidate survey by Conservation SA in the electorate of Boothby shows varied commitment to climate change policy, despite overwhelming public support for climate action.
The state's peak environment body reached out to candidates in South Australia’s most marginal seat to ask key questions about climate action.
‘This is the climate election,’ said Conservation SA Chief Executive Craig Wilkins.
‘Climate action is far more than just promoting renewable energy, although that is essential,’ said Mr Wilkins. ‘It also means having a credible plan to stop new fossil fuel development.’
‘It is clear voters want strong and immediate action on climate change,’ he said.
A recent Lowy Institute poll found that Australians are more concerned about climate action this election than at any time since 2007, ranking climate change as a bigger threat than terrorism.
Polling by the Australia Institute found a majority of South Australians support a range of ambitious climate policies including a rapid transition to renewable energy, no new coal mines and publicly funded research into zero-carbon industrial and agricultural practices.
The 2019 Conservation SA poll showed a marked contrast between Boothby candidates on their response to climate change, with some parties — including incumbent Liberal member Nicolle Flint — declining to respond.
‘This is very surprising considering how strong the support is in the community for genuine action,’ said Mr Wilkins.
Release Ends
Media Contact: Craig Wilkins, 0417 879 439
Candidate responses (click here to read the full text):
Strong: Stef Rozitis (Greens), Trevor Jones (Independent) and Geoff Russell (Animal Justice Party)
Moderate: Nadia Clancy (Labor)
Did not respond: Nicolle Flint (Liberal) and Peter Salerno (UAP)