We are proud of Darebin’s history of leadership on climate action, but deeply concerned that Council is de-funding the Climate Emergency Plan. Council has scrapped its Solar Savers program without replacement, and has dropped its commitment to supporting households and businesses to move from gas to clean electricity, in its draft annual plan and budget for 2025-26.

The Darebin community overwhelmingly supports urgent action on climate change. That’s why it is a pillar of the Community Vision Darebin 2041. It was an emergency when Darebin made the first emergency declaration in the world in 2016, and it’s even more serious now. 

In recent years, we’ve seen some of the worst fires, floods, heatwaves and droughts in Australia’s history, as global temperatures hit irreversible levels. We need to switch to clean energy as soon as possible, and all levels of government need to play their part. 

While the federal and state governments have introduced incentives for electric appliances (following Darebin’s Solar Savers program), this is not enough. Councils have a critical role to play in supporting people at the local level to make the switch. 

The 2024-2030 Darebin Climate Emergency Plan (CEP) recognised this. Following two years of consultation with the community and expert advice, the CEP includes a target of engaging 1,000 households every year with tailored support to electrify their homes and transport.

We strongly urge Council to fully fund delivery of the Climate Emergency Plan in 2025-26, and in every year of the Darebin Strategic Plan, as an ongoing part of Council’s core business. 

We implore Darebin Councillors to once again play a leading role, and work in partnership with federal and state governments in making a safer city for future generations.