The Commissioner for Children and Young People Leanne McLean today welcomed the Government’s commitment to amend the Climate Change (State Action) Amendment Bill 2021 to require consultation with Tasmanian children and young people on the development of climate change action plans.
“This significant shift in Government policy is a direct result of advocacy by Tasmanian children and young people and they should be congratulated for their efforts,” Ms McLean said.
“Our State’s response to climate change remains gravely important to the rights and wellbeing of all Tasmanian children and young people and future generations, who are disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change.
“As I noted in my submission to the Independent Review of the Climate Change (State Action) Act 2008 [HYPERLINK] and submission in response to the consultation draft of the Bill [HYPERLINK], it is imperative that the final Bill shows a firm commitment to the rights and wellbeing of the children and young people of Tasmania, particularly through recognising and upholding their right to participate in climate policy decisions.”
Ms McLean said the Government has heard and acted upon the voices of young Tasmanians. “By proposing these additional amendments, the Government is demonstrating a commitment to upholding the rights of the child to participate in decision affecting their lives, as enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
“I look forward to seeing the new iteration of the Bill with the promised amendments.
“I also strongly encourage all parliamentarians to see a Bill pass into legislation that acknowledges the disproportionate effects of climate change on young Tasmanians and future generations and that provides them with the opportunities and means to engage in and influence decision-making processes which inform Tasmania’s climate policy.”
