Friends of the Earth welcome the Andrews government's announcement of $11 million to help communities respond to climate impacts on Victoria's coastline.
The state government's swift response comes after rising sea levels and intensifying storm surges in recent weeks have damaged infrastructure in Apollo Bay and Inverloch. Beach access points, walking paths, and roads have been affected.
"Coastal communities need all the help they can get when it comes to the challenges posed by climate change," said Leigh Ewbank, Friends of the Earth climate spokesperson.
"Funding from the Andrews government will help communities with immediate responses to the damage caused by rising sea levels and intensifying storm surges."
"Greater funding will be needed to cope with the impacts of climate change on our coastline," added Ewbank.
"When will the Federal government provide funding for communities on the frontline of climate impact?"
Friends of the Earth say that community members are looking to the state government to show greater leadership on climate change while the Morrison government refuses to act.
Friends of the Earth say science-based targets are needed to avoid catastrophic impacts:
"When it comes to the climate crisis, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," said Leigh Ewbank.
"Victoria needs science-based Emissions Reduction Targets that help keep global warming below 1.5°C to limit damage in the long term."
Victoria's Emissions Reduction Targets must be announced within ten sitting days of March 31. Changes to the Parliamentary sitting calendar mean an announcement is now expected by August 6.
Friends of the Earth and communities across the state are eagerly awaiting the announcement of Victorian Emissions Reduction Targets.
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