Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen has urged local governments to collaborate and partner with the Federal Government to reduce emissions and embrace clean energy solutions to address Australia’s climate change challenge.
Speaking at a roundtable at ALGA’s 2023 National Local Roads, Transport and Infrastructure Congress on 7 September, Mr Bowen encouraged all councils to work closely with other levels of government.
“This is an all-of-nation effort – as we won’t get this done alone,” Mr Bowen told the breakfast, involving local mayors, shire presidents and council leaders.
“We want to bring communities with us – we are committed to doing that and we are here to help,” Mr Bowen said.
“We want to do it together – federal, state and local [governments] – rowing in the same direction. That’s certainly something we’re trying to achieve.
“We welcome partnerships right across the board, including from local government in particular.”
Minister Bowen also announced the guidelines for the Government’s new $100 million Community Energy Upgrades Fund are expected to be released in December, with councils able to apply for funding from January 2024.
ALGA President Cr Linda Scott co-hosted the breakfast and highlighted the excellent work councils are doing on emissions reduction and mitigation.
“For decades, local governments have been at the forefront of climate change adaptation and reducing their carbon footprints,” Cr Scott said.
“By investing in local clean energy solutions, we can create new jobs, deliver cheaper energy and better housing, while increasing our resilience to climate change.”
