The article strongly condemns the Australian government's decision to extend a gas project on Murujuga, a site of significant Indigenous cultural heritage, rich in ancient rock carvings. This decision is criticized for exacerbating climate change and harming an irreplaceable cultural site despite warnings from UNESCO, scientists, and traditional owners.
The article argues that the project's projected economic cost, exceeding $1.2 trillion due to emissions, outweighs its purported contribution to GDP. This is presented as poor economic management.
The decision is seen as a betrayal of Labor's climate mandate and a failure to meet the expectations of the Australian people, who have expressed a strong desire for stronger climate action. It also undermines Australia's credibility as a climate leader on the international stage, particularly in the Pacific region where climate change poses a serious threat.
The author calls for reforms to environmental laws, ending approvals for new and expanded fossil fuel projects, and for investments in a future that prioritizes the needs of Australians rather than gas giants.