After the many months of lockdown, the decision to open up Victoria to fossil gas exploration, and the deferral of Emissions Reduction Targets, we finally have some GOOD NEWS:
This week, the Andrews government announced a plan to repower all the state’s schools, hospitals, and metro trains with renewable energy!
The announcement has put even more spring in our step as we continue our campaign for Climate Justice.
Here’s a quick update on our efforts over the last month...
COMMUNITY WIN - VIC GOVT RENEWABLES ROLLOUT: 
The Andrews government's commitment to rollout renewables comes in response to powerful grassroots campaigns for a Victorian Renewable Energy Target and repowering Melbourne's trains with solar, wind, and storage. It's a reminder that when communities get together and get organised, we can win.
"Powering the state’s schools, hospitals, and metro trains with renewable energy helps keep Victoria on track to achieve zero emissions," noted Cam Walker in Friends of the Earth's response.
"The positive announcement shows that economic recovery programs can benefit the community and the climate. It shows that governments can create jobs while cutting emissions."
The government will soon turn its attention to the economic recovery and forthcoming decision on Emissions Reduction Targets. We can’t afford to miss the opportunity to shape these decisions.
TAKE ACTION: Sending a message to the government today and let's build on the momentum!
THE CAMPAIGN FOR CLIMATE TARGETS CONTINUES: 
Act on Climate has campaigned for science-based Emissions Reduction Targets for years now. To our great surprise, in late July, the Victorian government announced it had delayed making a decision on the targets in response to the escalating COVID-19 pandemic.
We held a well-attended 'emergency meeting' on August 6 to update community members on the announcement, share our strategic analysis, and take next steps. The take away: the community's campaign for science-based targets continues.
We'll be launching a new push to secure Victoria's targets in coming weeks. Keep your eyes peeled for more info.
PEOPLE'S CLIMATE STRATEGY - ENERGY FORUM SUCCESS: 
The community's strong appetite for renewable energy was on full display at our packed out community forum on August 20. Attendees were treated to diverse perspectives on how the energy sector can quickly rein in emissions and prepare for climate impacts.
We encourage people to watch a recording of the event to hear what leading energy analyst, Dylan McConnell; community energy expert, Taryn Lane; Victorian Trades Hall's Colin Long; and offshore wind developer, Erin Coldham, had to say.
CLICK HERE to watch a video of the forum.
ACT ON CLIMATE ANNOUNCE TRANSPORT FORUM: 
Community members around the state are writing a People’s Climate Strategy and coming up with big ideas for tacking the climate crisis.
But what policies will deliver the biggest bang for buck for cutting emissions from transport in Victoria?... And what climate impacts does the sector need to prepare for?
We're pleased to present an online forum on Thursday 17 September with leading figures in the transport sector to share their top ideas and answer all your questions.
CLICK HERE to register for the Zoom link. 
ONLINE GIG LAUNCHED - 'DIAL UP THE MUSIC, NOT THE CLIMATE #2':
We're stoked to have the legendary Bec Stevens, Blake Scott (of The Peep Tempel), Lewis Coleman, and more, performing at Dial Up the Music, Not the Climate #2.
CLICK HERE to grab your tickets and support our grassroots campaign.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
There are plenty of informative online events coming up in September and beyond. We'd love to see you at the following:
- Sept 8 - Call the Gas Guzzlers, Yes 2 Renewables
- Sept 9 - A Plan for Planet A, The Australia Institute
- Sept 10 - Launch of the Tarnagulla Resilience Action Plan, Tarnagulla Alternative Energy Group
- Sept 11 - Dial up the Music, Not the Climate #2, Act on Climate
- Sept 17 - People's Climate Solutions: The Transport Sector, Act on Climate
- Sept 25 - Fund Our Future, Not Gas: Day of Action, School Strike for Climate
And remember, you're always welcome to join us for our weekly Act on Climate meetings which we're now holding online via Zoom (Mondays at 6pm).
That's all from us for now. See you on the (virtual) campaign trail...