Back at the Climate and Energy Director at the Australia Institute, Dr Polly Hemming, is addressing the Climate Integrity Summit, making some pointed comments about Australia needing to act with integrity – and that even small players can wield great power and create change.

We have been conditioned to believe that we are powerless, that our voice is too small, our influence too limited – as individuals and as a nation,” Ms Hemming said.

“The question is not whether Australia has the capacity to lead with integrity, the question is whether the people in this building have the courage to do it.

“Australia is not small, we are just told that it is when our leaders want to avoid international responsibility for something.”

She has also highlighted how important it is for Australia to be a leader when it comes to progressive climate policy.  

“The stability of our democracy, the fairness of our tax system, the strength of our public institutions— all of it shapes how well we can respond to climate breakdown,” she said.

“Everything comes back to climate and climate affects everything.”