Environment group Friends of the Earth welcomes the new integrated Energy, Environment and Climate Change portfolio emerging out of a reshuffle of the Victorian cabinet today.
"Lily D'Ambrosio has worked hard in energy and resources. We expect she will bring the same focus to her new portfolio," said Cam Walker of Friends of the Earth.
"With alarming climate change science emerging in 2016 and the western and northern districts of the state in the grips of drought, Victoria needs a minister with drive and determination to spearhead the state's response to climate change."
"Setting an ambitious Victorian Renewable Energy Target and banning risky onshore gasfields are two early decisions the minister can make to demonstrate leadership in tackling climate change," said Friends of the Earth renewables campaigner Leigh Ewbank.
Friends of the Earth say the expanded role and integration of climate change, energy and environment is a smart move and will deliver dividends for Victorians.
"The Premier's decision to integrate the climate change, energy and environmental portfolios is a smart move. The issues are intimately connected," said Cam Walker.
"Giving one minister carriage of climate, energy and environment will encourage better policy outcomes for Victorians."
Friends of the Earth thanks former minister Lisa Neville for her service in the portfolio.
"Minister Neville oversaw complex and important areas of work such as the forests taskforce and kick started the review of the Victorian Climate Act, which will form the basis of the new framework for responding to this most critical of issues" said Walker.
Further comment
Cam Walker 0419 338 047
Leigh Ewbank 0406 316 176
Ursula Alquier 0474 803 740
Chloe Aldenhoven 0432 328 107