“When will you stop approving new coal and gas projects?” Rising Tide protestors demand answers

7th April, 2025

MELBOURNE - Chris Bowen was approached on his way to a press conference at in Burwood, Melbourne, this morning. Rosie held a banner saying “NO NEW COAL OR GAS” and asked, "Your government has approved 33 new coal and gas projects—when will you stop approving new ones?"

Nick followed up with: "Australia is the third-largest fossil fuel exporter in the world. When will your government take responsibility for climate action?" When Bowen tried to pivot to battery plans, Nick fired back, “It’s not enough to meet our commitments under the Paris Agreement. We can’t keep opening new fossil fuel projects.”

The Albanese government has approved 33 new coal and gas projects, extensions and licenses since getting elected in 2022. According to recent polling by the Lowy Institute, 59% of Australians support “banning new coal mines from opening in Australia,” yet despite this, neither major party has any plans to stop approving new coal and gas.