Opened the debate
Smith argued that climate change poses a severe threat to northern Australia, citing the National Climate Risk Assessment and recent extreme weather events like Cyclone Jasper. Smith detailed impacts on Torres Strait Islanders, including inundation of homes and cemeteries, and noted that some residents fear their culture could disappear within 30 years. Smith highlighted disruptions to traditional bush medicine practices in Wujal Wujal and significant recovery costs, including over $229 million spent on measures in the region. Smith warned of ecological changes such as shifting stinger seasons and coral trout migration, which threaten ecosystems and public safety. Smith stated that the government is addressing these issues by pursuing net zero emissions, investing in renewables, and supporting reef resilience projects like coral IVF.