Mr Tony Burke (Watson, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the House) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the member for Warringah for the question. The issues around plastic pollution are huge. It was some time ago that the data was put out, which I think every environment minister subsequently has used, showing that—I think it's by 2050—the weight of plastic in the oceans is expected to be more than the weight of the fish. So plastic pollution is something that is a global problem. Our oceans are a global asset, and dealing with this will require global solutions.

Australia has a strong ambition to finalise a global plastics treaty. We played a key role during those negotiations. When the Albanese government was elected, we joined what's known as the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, and we're continuing to work with other nations, businesses, ENGOs and civil society.

Plastic pollution is still set to triple by 2060. Experts predict plastics in oceans will outweigh the fish by 2050, as I've mentioned. We're working towards an agreement that would globally ban problematic plastics and harmful chemicals, create universal standards and end plastic pollution by 2040. We know that that involves action which needs to also happen at home. This government has already delivered over a billion dollars, including $60 million for soft plastics, with governments and industry to boost recycling by 1.4 million tonnes each year. We have created over 3,000 ongoing and construction jobs. As I say, we're fighting on the international stage for a binding treaty to end plastic pollution by 2040.

All members are concerned about this, but, obviously, members like the member for Warringah and their communities have a very special relationship with this because people see it at the beach. People see, very directly, what is there at the beach, and they want to know that the government and their local members are raising the issue and acting to deal with it. The government is committed to being part of that international action, and I acknowledge the longstanding commitment on this issue from the member for Warringah.

See this speech in context