In 2007, Fremantle captain and Palawa man Alex Pearce challenged then-prime minister John Howard’s stance on climate change. Fast forward nearly 20 years, and the issue is still a hot topic as another election looms. The Coalition has yet to reveal its 2030 target, while Labor is waiting to update its emissions reduction goals beyond 2030 until after the election. With the Duty of Care bill introduced by ACT Senator David Pocock stalled in the Senate, the push for greater climate action now falls to minor parties and independents.
FrontRunners, an organization founded by David and Emma Pocock, has garnered support from over 100 athletes, including AFLW stars Emma Kearney and Nicola Barr, Olympic boxer Harry Garside, and Australian cricket Test captain Pat Cummins. The organization aims to bring both elite and community-level athletes together to advocate for greater climate action. The Duty of Care bill, which would require governments to prioritize the health and welfare of future generations in climate-related decisions, is currently facing opposition from both the government and opposition in the Senate.
Despite the current roadblocks, David Pocock is determined to see the Duty of Care bill through. If re-elected, he plans to bring the bill forward for a vote in the hopes of a more sympathetic Senate. The bill’s focus on considering the well-being of future generations in climate decisions reflects the urgent need for action as the effects of climate change become increasingly visible. With athletes like Alex Pearce, Emma Kearney, and Pat Cummins lending their voices to the cause, the push for greater climate action is gaining momentum.
As the political landscape continues to shift and elections approach, the issue of climate change is poised to remain a key battleground. The delay in setting emissions reduction targets and the stalling of bills like the Duty of Care act highlight the ongoing struggle for meaningful action on climate change. Despite the challenges, the support from athletes and organizations like FrontRunners illustrates the growing momentum behind the movement for greater climate action. With the voices of athletes and advocates like David Pocock leading the charge, the fight for a sustainable future remains a top priority for many.
