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.
Speaking at a roundtable at ALGA’s 2023 National Local Roads, Transport and Infrastructure Congress in Canberra, Minister Bowen encouraged councils to work closely with other levels of government.
“This is an all-of-nation effort – as we won’t get this done alone,” said Mr Bowen.
“We want to bring communities with us – we are committed to doing that and we are here to help.
“We welcome partnerships right across the board, including from local government in particular.”
Mr Bowen also yesterday 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 next year.
ALGA President, City of Sydney Councillor 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.”
“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,” President Scott said.
(Photos courtesy of the Australian Local Government Association).
