The summit has brought together leading experts in economics, ecology, policy and governance to discuss a credible and achievable climate policy that serves the Australian people and broader global community.

In his opening remarks, The Australia Institute’s Executive Director, Richard Denniss, has pointed out the importance of the role of each individual in a democracy.

“In a democracy we can and we do stop people doing things that harm other people all the time,” Dr Denniss said.

He has pointed out that any talk of ‘transitioning away’ from fossil fuels is empty noise and stressed the importance of integrity.

“Australia is not transitioning away from fossil fuels we are doubling down,” he said.

“There is no transition taking place in Australia we plan to export more fossil fuels.

“Our public debate lacks integrity, we talk about transitioning away from something while expanding it – there is no integrity behind that.

“We collect more revenue from HECS than the Petroleum Resources Rent Tax.”

Other speakers today include Jennifer Robinson, Craig Foster and David Pocock.