The Minister for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, Greg Combet, and Labor Senator for Queensland, Jan McLucas, welcomed the Climate Commission’s return to Queensland for another public forum.

Local residents will have the opportunity to engage with experts on the science and economics of climate change during a forum at St Pat’s Hall in Mackay tonight.

“This is an opportunity for the Mackay community to discuss the important issues of climate change and gain further information about the science and impacts,” Mr Combet said.

“The Government is committed to building a strong consensus within the community on taking action on climate change. This is a great opportunity for locals to ask questions and get factual, independent information about climate change,” said Senator McLucas.

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.

Previous public forums have been held in Geelong, Ipswich and Port Macquarie.

Further information on the Climate Commission and background on its members