Christine Milne (Tasmania, Australian Greens) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

On behalf of Senator Waters, I move:

That the Senate—

(a) notes that:

(i) the Minister for the Environment (Mr Hunt) announced $6 million to combat illegal logging at the Asia Pacific Rainforest Summit,

(ii) the Minister did not mention That the Government would simultaneously cut Australia's commitment to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) by 80 per cent, or $4 million, and

(iii) Australia benefits from leveraging over $500 million in contributions from other countries to the UNEP in a range of areas, including air pollution, ozone depletion and biodiversity loss;

(b) condemns the Government's sleight of hand which has further embarrassed Australia on the global stage; and

(c) calls on the Government to restore Australia's financial commitment to the UNEP.

Mitch Fifield (Victoria, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Social Services) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Stephen Parry (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute.

Mitch Fifield (Victoria, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Social Services) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The government continues to support UNEP and is making a contribution; however, as we fix Labor's budget mess we are reprioritising our spending and instead are investing in practical action for coral reef protection within our region and combating illegal logging of the great rainforests of the Asia-Pacific. That totals $12 million. Australia is playing its part in an effective international response to climate change through direct action, including our $2.5 billion Emissions Reduction Fund, international engagement and our aid program. The Australian government is contributing $93 million to the Global Environment Facility. The Global Environment Facility will contribute to sustainable economic growth, which is critical to raising living standards in poor communities dependent on the natural environment.

Stephen Parry (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The question is that the motion moved by Senator Milne be agreed to.