Transition away from fossil fuels and gas is going to affect everyone in Australia - so let everyone have a say. There should be a National Vote on the ways to progress, and each electorate or state should comply with the majority. If a region wants hydroelectric power instead of nuclear, do that. Nobody should be forced to endure something they don't agree with, as dictated by only a few people in authority.
"We've been voting on climate change for the last 2 decades"... Again, I ask WHO? I have been voting for over 20 years, and never been asked to vote on a single matter relating to climate change, energy use or similar. Apart from the general 2-party preference elections, the only topic vote was about legalising gay marriage. Australia is supposed to be a democracy, but important matters often feel like a dictatorship. Most people don't get to have a say - but they must, on energy transition.
Perhaps a national referendum is needed, especially if it fails. Australian citizens would have made it clear that nuclear isn't wanted. Then we can focus on finding acceptable, efficient, sustainable energy sources - instead of forcing the entire population into using something they never wanted in the first place. Whatever happened to aspects such as democracy, choice, consent?
According to who? The only national voting I'm aware of is the usual federal election, day unknown as yet. I'm saying there needs to be a national vote for this specific issue. And that action should be taken which is appropriate for each region.
We've been voting on climate change for the last 2 decades.
A national vote is about to happen.
I would be very concerned we would have a piece meal approach based on popular knowledge vs facts.
I think you are suggesting a referendum which is likely to fail unless both major parties are in favour. The deliberative process we are involved in right now is more likely produce a good overall policy that is supported by the majority.
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