Cole wants election to focus on the climate emergency

THE federal election is looming but not yet officially begun, and Corangamite independent candidate Damien Cole says voters should be wary of the major parties “insufficiently dealing with the issues that truly matter”.

He said Labor and the Liberals would both make promises to get votes, such as towards an aquatic centre in Torquay North.

“This begs the question: if they’re both claiming to deliver a pool, can we not agree that the financing will be there no matter what and move on to the real issues facing our electorate and our nation? Issues such as Equinor drilling in the Great Australian Bight, which has so far been ignored by both Liberal and Labor.

“What shocks me most isn’t that they’re ignoring just this issue, but the fact there is barely any focus on the single biggest issue facing humanity today – the climate emergency.

“While the Liberals remain focused on coal, Labor has made a step in the right direction with its ‘New Climate Policy’, however it’s simply not good enough.”

He said Australia must address this emergency “immediately and systematically” in order to leave a proud legacy for future generations.

“Our government must have clear and precise policies to deal with these issues, because what will become of our communities if our coast is covered in oil? And what’s the use of a swimming pool on a dead planet?

“While the government will make decisions for the future one way or another, it’s up to the representative of Corangamite to push the issues that matter to our community. And as an independent representing you, I will be your voice for our community.”