'We all have the power to do something'

By Kristen McDonald, of Extinction Rebellion Northern Illawarra

I remember joining with activists in 2008 to occupy Eraring coal-fired power plant on NSW’s Central Coast. We peacefully went in one early morning and briefly prevented Australia’s then-most polluting coal power plant from emitting more pollution. At the time plenty of people told me I was crazy, that we need this coal plant for jobs and energy, and that direct action doesn’t achieve anything.

Today, Eraring is slated to be transitioned into Australia’s largest battery to support renewable energy.

Australia was the only developed nation not to increase its 2030 emissions reduction targets at the COP26 climate negotiations and was clearly a handbrake on progress. Fed up with the failure of our federal leaders to represent its people, Extinction Rebellion activists have been increasingly taking a range of actions around the country over the last month. Highlights included:

Dumping a pile of manure outside Finance Minister Simon Birmingham’s office with the message: “Australia’s climate ‘plan’ stinks”

A mock funeral procession representing the millions of species that will be lost if we don’t reduce global warming to less than 1.5°C

Coal trains and coal export loaders from Newcastle to Mackay blockaded

Prams dramatically hung from a bridge illustrating that ‘life is hanging by a thread’

And, closer to home, various groups blocking the Russell Vale mine entrance, outraged by its renewed operating licence.

Tactics like these don’t appeal to all. But we all have the power to do something: consumer choices, such as buying green energy, or electing representatives who will work hard for our future is another. Which candidates have decent climate policies at the December 4 Council election?