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A lively protest outside Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s electorate office in Marrickville on December 9 called on Labor to reconsider the approval of three new coal mines in the middle of a climate emergency.

It was part of a national day of action organised by Move Beyond Coal (MBC), with similar protests outside MP’s offices in Naarm/Melbourne, Magan-djin/Brisbane, Ngunnawal/Canberra and Tweed Heads.

Environmental Justice Australia (EJA) asked Albanese to consider the climate destruction that would be caused by the proposed Boggabri open-cut coal mine near Narrabri, NSW; Caval Ridge near Moranbah, Queensland; and Lake Vermont Meadowbrook, near Dysart, Queensland. 

EJA asked Labor to reassess how the climate harm and subsequent pollution would impact the country’s environment and threatened species.

Nic Clyde, from MBC, told the rally to use the holiday period to talk to family and friends about the dangers of coal and gas mining. 

Doro, from the Bob Brown Foundation, highlighted the impact of destroying native forests for coal mining on native wildlife, including koalas. 

Rising Tide spokesperson Zack Schofield spoke about the impact of intensifying heatwaves, bushfires and floods. 

A representative from the Knitting Nannas said the climate emergency would impact health and living conditions. 

Speakers said next years’ federal election was an opportunity to vote for pro-climate candidates.

Meanwhile, Pacific Island nations have accused Australia of undermining climate progress in a case presented to the International Court of Justice. 

They are arguing that high-emitter countries have a legal obligation to tackle the climate crisis.

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'Wake up Albo!'. Photo: Rigmor Helene Berg