2023-01-08
Meeting indigenous activists fighting for climate justice at COP27, celebrating Tiwi Islanders in stopping a gas project and involvement in parliamentary actions on first nations justice
By Senator Dorinda Cox
Kaya,
2022 has been a whirlwind year of campaigning and legislative wins for our Federal Greens team.
Reflecting on the last few months it’s hard to pinpoint the most rewarding moments but here are a few of the highlights.
COP27
I attended the first week of COP27 in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt. It was an honour to represent the Greens on the national stage and hold the Australian Government to account. I met with several advocacy groups to discuss how we can apply pressure back home to transition to cleaner, greener renewable energy sources. The most rewarding part of the trip was connecting with other Indigenous activists who are fighting to protect their Country, sacred sites and way of life.
These are the people on the frontline of the climate crisis, whose sovereign land is being destroyed, yet they are usually the ones with the least say. We cannot allow their land to be sold to the highest bidder without transparency and accountability. It is crucial that Article 6.4, which provides protection for Indigenous peoples and their way of life, is enabled. We cannot allow manufactured consent to continue as we move towards a zero carbon future.
Senate Inquiry into Missing and Murdered First Nations Women and Children
The Senate Inquiry saw its 1 year anniversary on the 25th November, which also marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the start of the 16 days of activism campaign. Submissions are now closed with public hearings across the country to start in the new year.
Tiwi Island Traditional Owners defeat Santos
The Federal Court upheld the Tipakalippa vs. NOPSEMA ruling against Santos’ Barossa gas project. The court’s acknowledgement of the Munupi peoples connection to Sea Country is a welcome change, and the ruling sets a precedent for resource companies when consulting with stakeholders.
Parliament
It was a busy parliamentary period with lots of legislation passed. Big wins included the passage of the energy bill and continued rehabilitation of Ranger Uranium Mine. I put forward two amendments to stop public money funding fossil fuel projects but both were voted down by the major parties (Beach Energy in Victoria, and Middle Arm Precinct in the Northern Territory). The government also published its response to the “A Way forward Report'' following the Juukan Gorge disaster. This is a welcome start but more needs to be done to protect First Nations cultural heritage. I also had a number of meetings with stakeholders and moved parliamentary offices.
I’m looking forward to what the new year brings and I hope to get a chance to yarn with you and hear what’s important to you.
As always, if you have any questions or would like more information, please reach out to me or my Chief-of-Staff, Cade Smith - cade.smith@aph.gov.au.
In solidarity,
Dorinda