Facing Western Australia's Climate Future with Urgency

Western Australia stands at a crossroads. The recent National Climate Risk Assessment report delivered a sobering message: increased drought, biodiversity loss, marine ecosystem damage, and infrastructure challenges lie ahead. These aren't just distant predictions. They threaten the very fabric of our communities and the health of our environment.

The ticking climate time bomb

As a medical doctor, I understand the urgency of diagnosing and treating a condition before it worsens. Our state's climate is no different. This report is a diagnosis — one that demands swift and decisive action. Yet, the government's response seems to echo a familiar refrain: engagement without concrete leadership or a clear timeline. The state simply will continue "to engage" through national councils, relying on federal coordination without naming a WA-led centre to manage this looming crisis.

This is not just bureaucracy in action. It is a waiting room where the clock ticks louder while droughts deepen and marine life fades. If we delay, Western Australian families will feel the direct impacts — water shortages in the backyard, losing beloved natural spaces, and infrastructure unfit for harsher conditions. This is a clear and present risk to our homes, our wallets, and our wellbeing.

From GP to guardian of our environment

Over years as a GP, I have seen firsthand that problems ignored tend to worsen. Red tape does not cure; it delays. Evidence-based, proactive care is essential. The same applies at the state level. While many wait for federal directives, it’s time for WA to lead. This means naming a dedicated ministry or department with the authority to coordinate cross-government climate strategies tailored for WA’s unique challenges. A cohesive, timely plan is what residents deserve — not another round of engagement with no clear outcomes.

The future belongs to those who look ahead, armed with science and compassion. We can choose to be forward thinkers rather than bystanders, embracing evidence and innovation to protect what matters most.

If you want to learn more about how I approach these issues in the Legislative Council and my vision for a resilient Western Australia, I invite you to subscribe to my YouTube channel. Together, we can demand transparency, accountability, and real action on climate.

Moving beyond words to action

The stakes couldn’t be higher. The National Climate Risk Assessment report is a wake-up call, but the government’s reply falls short of leading change. WA’s residents deserve clear leadership, a dedicated centre to coordinate responses, and a firm timeline for plans that safeguard our environment and communities.

This isn’t solely a political issue. It’s about the security of families, the future of our natural heritage, and the resilience of our economy. As a doctor, I know the cost of ignoring warning signs. As a member of the Legislative Council, I’m committed to pushing for swift and meaningful change.

For those willing to stand with me in championing science-led, compassionate policies, let’s build a WA that faces the climate crisis head-on. You can read the full discussion and official responses in the Legislative Council Hansard. Interested in deeper involvement? Join Legalise Cannabis WA and be part of a forward-thinking tribe committed to evidence-based progress at lcwaparty.org.au.