“I feel not anxiety but disbelief.”
The year is 2025, and the world is ablaze with wildfires, both literally and figuratively. As a young Australian, I find myself caught in a whirlwind of emotions – from anger to disillusionment – as I witness the impacts of climate change unfolding before my eyes.
It all began one evening as I mindlessly scrolled through TikTok after a long day at work. A text message jolts me out of my digital daze, delivering news that would have sent my younger self spiraling into a panic: 2024 has been declared the hottest year on record, surpassing 1.5 degrees Celsius of warming compared to preindustrial levels.
The realization hits hard – the choices made today are shaping the future for generations to come. Yet, as young people, we find ourselves sidelined in discussions about policies that impact our lives profoundly. The lack of legislation acknowledging the disproportionate effects of climate change on children and future generations in Australia only adds to our frustration and disbelief.
“As health crises rise…our future up in smoke.”
Amidst the backdrop of raging wildfires in places like Los Angeles during what should be winter, I can’t help but wonder if similar disasters could strike closer to home in Sydney or Melbourne. Are we truly prepared for such catastrophic events?
The disconnect between youth voices demanding long-term solutions and policymakers focused on short-term gains is stark. Despite mounting pressure from various quarters – including prominent individuals and organizations signing petitions for legislative action – meaningful change seems elusive.
A proposed duty of care bill aims to hold governments accountable for safeguarding the health and well-being of young people against climate-related risks. However, it faces indifference from those in power who seem more attuned to electoral cycles than securing a sustainable future for coming generations.
“Regardless of…the message received.”
The apathy displayed by some politicians towards crucial environmental reforms reflects a broader sentiment among young Australians – one marked by awareness, cynicism, and disaffection towards traditional political systems.
While access to information has never been easier for our generation, there’s a prevailing sense that our concerns are falling on deaf ears. The perceived prioritization of short-term gains over long-term sustainability by elected officials only deepens feelings of disenchantment among young voters.
With an election looming on the horizon in 2025, many young Australians find themselves at a crossroads – torn between hope for meaningful change through democratic engagement and resignation towards broken promises and unmet commitments.
In this pivotal moment where skepticism battles against optimism, perhaps there lies an opportunity for leaders to bridge the gap with younger demographics through genuine dialogue and concrete actions that resonate with their aspirations for a better tomorrow.
Leave feedback about this