Minister for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, Greg Combet, and Member for Lyne, Rob Oakeshott, welcomed the Climate Commission’s third public forum as it travelled into New South Wales.

The forum, being held at Panthers in Port Macquarie tonight, gives local residents the opportunity to engage with experts on the science and economics of climate change.

“The Government is committed to building a strong consensus within the community on taking action on climate change, including providing further information about the science and impacts of climate change,” said Mr Combet.

“This is an important opportunity for the Mid-North Coast to discuss the important issues of climate change, energy security and how both the Government and the Opposition plan to reach their agreed bipartisan target of a 5% reduction in carbon emissions by 2020,” Mr Oakeshott said.

The independent Climate Commission was launched on 10 February 2011 and is led by Professor Tim Flannery, one of Australia’s leading writers on climate change and an internationally acclaimed scientist, explorer and conservationist.

Professor Flannery is joined by a number of eminent Australians who are leaders in their fields. They include Professor Will Steffen, Professor Lesley Hughes, Dr Susannah Eliott, Mr Gerry Hueston and Mr Roger Beale.  The Commissioners have expertise in climate change science, science communications, business, public policy and economics. They are also supported by a Science Advisory Panel.

The Climate Commission fulfils an election commitment by the Gillard Government, to establish an independent body providing expert advice and information on climate change to the community.

The Climate Commission has previously held public forums in Geelong and Ipswich.

Further information on the Climate Commission and background on its members can be found at www.climatecommission.gov.au