Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Liability for Climate Change Damage (Make the Polluters Pay) Bill 2025; Second Reading

Senate · Wednesday 26 March 2025

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

Senator Larissa Waters introduced the Liability for Climate Change Damage (Make the Polluters Pay) Bill 2025, seeking to hold fossil fuel corporations accountable for climate-related damages. The proposal aims to allow victims of extreme weather events, such as Tropical Cyclone Alfred, to sue coal and gas companies for losses incurred. Waters argued that major emitters have known about climate risks since 1990 and should bear responsibility for the resulting disasters. The debate was adjourned after the initial speech, with leave granted for the senator to continue remarks later.

Outcome

Debate adjourned with leave granted for the senator to continue remarks later.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Larissa Waters (QLD) (Australian Greens) Greens

Waters supported the bill, arguing it would make coal and gas corporations liable for damage caused by climate disasters. Waters stated that fossil fuel companies continue to profit while communities suffer from intensified storms and flooding. Waters proposed that victims of events like Tropical Cyclone Alfred should have the right to sue these corporations for damages to homes and businesses. Waters noted that governments could also take legal action on behalf of affected people. Waters emphasized that major emitters exceeding one million tonnes of emissions since September 1990 should be held accountable.