How much do Australian voters care about climate change? | The Stream

More than 17.2 million Australians are set to vote during this week's elections - and for the first time, climate change could shape the outcome in a major way.

Massive deadly bushfires in 2019 and destructive flooding in 2021 have changed many Australians' outlook on climate action. Polls show an increasing number of citizens believe that global warming "is a serious and pressing problem" and that "we should begin taking steps now, even if this involves significant costs."

Despite this growing support for stronger climate policy, neither major party has pledged ambitious reform. Both Liberal Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and opposition leader Anthony Albanese support a net zero carbons emissions policy by 2050, which analysts say isn't bold enough.

That's one big reason why so-called "teal independent" candidates are gaining traction around the nation. This group of nearly two dozen, mostly female candidates are running on an anti-corruption, pro-climate action platform.

Other issues at stake in this year's elections include the soaring cost of living, government corruption and tackling gender and racial inequality.

In this episode of The Stream, we'll talk about the major issues sending Australians to the polls, and what it could mean for the country's climate policy. Join the conversation.

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