The Labor Government in Victoria is winning the hearts of the environmentally conscious voter. The 2006 election campaign features a 14 point plan designed to reduce the impact that Australian families are having on the environment by 60 per cent by the year 2050.

The Labor Government in Victoria is winning the hearts of the environmentally conscious voter. The 2006 election campaign features a 14 point plan designed to reduce the impact that Australian families are having on the environment by 60 per cent by the year 2050.

"Labor is stepping up the fight against climate change now to make sure our economy, environment and way of life are protected," Mr Bracks said. (Labor Tackles Climate Change, Campaign Media unit, 13th November, 2006).

"Our target to reduce emissions by 60 per cent on year 2000 levels will drive investment in clean technology, renewable energy like windfarms, and energy efficiency in the home and in industry. (Labor Tackles Climate Change Et al).

"Our climate is changing and only by taking strong action will we be able to reverse the damage - and protect the environment, including our water supplies," he said. (Labor Tackles Climate Change Et al).

Labor will set the path to further reductions of greenhouse gas emissions by:

• Boosting our level of energy production from low emission sources such as clean coal, natural gas, wind, solar and hydro-electricity to 20 per cent by 2020;
• Require major electricity generators and industrial users to join the fight against climate change, with specific targets set for separate industries;
• Introducing a landmark Climate Change Bill to enshrine emission reduction targets, allow carbon dioxide to be permanently stored underground (geosequestration) and require large companies to publicly disclose their emissions; and
• Investing $5 million to put solar panels on 500 schools and community buildings.

(Labor Tackles Climate Change Et al).

Environment Minister John Thwaites said today's announcements were the biggest climate change commitment in Victoria's history. (Labor Tackles Climate Change Et al).

"These deep cuts in greenhouse gas emissions are achievable and necessary given the evidence of climate change and the potential impacts on the environment, industry and the economy," Mr Thwaites said. (Labor Tackles Climate Change Et al).

"The CSIRO predicts that if governments don't take our greenhouse gas responsibilities seriously, our average temperatures will rise by up to five degrees - leading to drought, bushfires and reductions in our water supply. (Labor Tackles Climate Change Et al).

"The Bracks Government will also continue to support the introduction of a national emissions trading scheme. (Labor Tackles Climate Change Et al).

"In contrast the Liberal Party opposes emissions trading and will abolish the Government's 10 per cent renewable energy scheme - VRET. (Labor Tackles Climate Change Et al).

"This will decimate the Victorian wind and solar energy industries sending jobs and investment out of the State." (Labor Tackles Climate Change Et al).

Theo Theophanous, The Minister for Energy Industries and Resources, said more had to be done to address the problem, but Victoria had a proud reputation for cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

"Victoria is already leading the way with our renewable energy plan, VRET, to cut 27 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions," Mr Theophanous said. (Labor Tackles Climate Change Et al).

"Today's policy builds on that plan and sets Victoria on the course for a low emissions future." (Labor Tackles Climate Change Et al).