Tell MPs: The 2035 Climate Target Fails Our Kids’ Safety.

The government has just announced a weak 2035 climate target - one that is not aligned with what science says is needed to protect our kids from harm. The government’s own National Climate Risk Assessment makes clear the catastrophic impacts if we fail to stay within 1.5°C.

Now is a critical moment to speak up.

As a parent, your voice carries weight. MPs and Senators need to hear that we expect bold, science-aligned action: Net Zero by 2035.

💬 You’ll likely speak to a friendly staffer or leave a voicemail - that’s perfectly okay. Every message counts.

This guide will walk you through it, step by step.

👉 Takes 5 minutes

📞 No experience needed

🌏 Big impact for our kids’ future

Step 1: Find your Labor MP, Senator or duty senator

Use this tool to quickly find a phone number for your Labor MP or nominated ALP Senator (for electorates without a Labor MP) - just search by your electorate.

Find your MP/Senator with this tool

Step 2: Make Your Call - With Script or Talking Points

You’ve found your MP or Senator’s number - now it’s time to make the call. Use the calling script or talking points below for pointers.

Whether you prefer a full script or just a few key points to guide you, we’ve got you covered.

Your Key Message (say this no matter what)

"I’m calling to express my disappointment that the government’s 2035 climate target fails the child safety test. This target exposes our kids to escalating climate risks, and we cannot ignore the science."

This is the #1 thing to communicate - it frames the decision as failing children’s safety, and clearly conveys urgency and concern to MPs.

Calling script (make it your own)

Hi [MP/Senator’s Name], I’m [name], a parent/carer/grandparent from [location]. I’m calling because the 2035 climate target fails the child safety test. As a [parent/carer/grandparent] we follow the best available science in order to keep our children safe, we believe that the government has the same duty of care and may have a legal obligation to do the same.

I was [emotional reaction] to read the findings of the risk assessment, we cannot ignore the science. I urge the Labor government to adopt science-led climate policy that cuts pollution at the pace required, protects our communities, and gives every child the chance to grow up safe and healthy.

[Optional: Share your story – e.g., “I have two kids, and by 2035 they’ll be 10 and 12. I want them to grow up in a world that’s safe and stable.”]

I ask [politicians name] what are they going to do to keep our kids safe? to convey this message to the labor cabinet and ask them to reconsider. We have so much to gain and everything to lose.

Please pass on my message - and thank you for your time.

(Optional) I’d appreciate a response outlining [MP/Senator’s Name]’s position. You can reach me on [Phone] or [Email].

Talking Points

Just hit the key points in your own way - you don’t have to be perfect!

1. Introduce yourself
"Hi [MP/Senator’s Name], I’m [name], a parent/carer/grandparent from [location]."

2. Frame the problem / concern
"I’m calling because the announced 2035 climate target fails the child safety test. As a parent/carer/grandparent, we follow the best available science to keep our children safe - we believe the government has the same duty of care, and may even have a legal obligation to do the same."

3. Share your emotional response & urgency
"I was [shocked / heartbroken / alarmed] to read the findings of the National Climate Risk Assessment. We cannot ignore the science - our kids’ safety and future are at stake."

4. Share your 'why'
"This matters to my family because… [my kids will be 15 and 17 by 2035 / we’re already seeing impacts in our community / I want my grandkids to live in a safe climate]."

5. Make the ask / prompt action
"I urge the Labor government to adopt science-led climate policy that cuts pollution at the pace required, protects our communities, and gives every child the chance to grow up safe and healthy. What will you do to keep our kids safe, and convey this message to the Labor Cabinet to reconsider the target? We have so much to gain and everything to lose.

TIP: Speak from the heart - your voice matters. If you're nervous, you're not alone - but together, we're powerful.

Call Script or Talking Points for The Prime Ministers Office and Key Ministers

Prime Minister - (02) 6277 7700 or (02) 9564 3588
Climate and Energy Minister Chris Bowen - (02) 6277 7120
Assistant Minister Climate and Energy Josh Wilson - (02) 6277 2081
Environment Minister Murray Watt - (07) 5531 1033
Resource Minister Madelaine King - (02) 6277 7930
Treasurer Jim Chalmers - (02) 6277 7340
Education Minister Jason Clare - (02) 6277 7350

Call Script PM & Ministers

Hi [Prime Minister/Minister’s name], I’m [name], a parent/carer/grandparent from [location]. I’m calling because the 2035 climate target announced by the government fails the child safety test.

As a [parent/carer/grandparent], I follow the best available science to keep my children safe. I believe the government has the same duty of care - and a responsibility to show leadership in these challenging times.

I was [emotional reaction] to read the findings of the National Climate Risk Assessment. We cannot ignore the science. It shows the risks of fires, floods, and heatwaves - and makes clear that the cost of inaction, or even inadequate action, is far greater than acting decisively now.

I urge you to show courageous leadership by strengthening Australia’s climate response - reassessing the 2035 target and ending approvals for new coal and gas projects. This is about guiding us safely through uncertain times, and shaping a future Australians can be proud of.

Our kids didn’t choose this crisis, but they will live with its consequences. What will your legacy be - leaving them exposed, or leading us to safety?

Please pass on my message - and thank you for your time.

Quick Talking Points (for PM & Ministers)

Introduce yourself: “I’m a parent from [suburb], and I care deeply about our kids’ safety.”
Express concern: “The 2035 target fails the child safety test.”
Leadership: “In these times, we need leaders who follow science and protect children’s futures.”
Cost of inaction: “The risks - and costs - of inaction are far greater than acting decisively now.”
Call to action: “Reassess the target and stop approving new coal and gas.”
Legacy: “What will your legacy be - leaving kids exposed, or leading us to safety?”

Step 4: Tell us who you called - it helps us track momentum

Your action matters. By letting us know who you called, we can:

Keep track of which electorates have been contacted
Show decision-makers how many parents are raising their voices
Follow up strategically with MPs/Senators