Despite concerns that Bathurst’s Flannery Centre might suffer as the Coalition makes its position on issues related to climate change clear, it appears the centre’s sustainability programs are unlikely to be affected.
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News that one of the Coalition’s first acts in government was to abolish the Climate Change Commission, caused ripples of unease in the Bathurst community.
The federal government has also sacked Professor Tim Flannery and prepared a bill to repeal the separate Climate Change Authority.
The measures are part of the Coalition’s broader efforts to remove the carbon price.
With Bathurst the home of The Flannery Centre, it is inevitable that people are wondering what this will mean for the multi-million training and education centre managed by Skillset.
However, acting CEO Skillset, Narelle Stocks, said while the building was named in honour of Professor Flannery, the centre has no ongoing connection with him apart from the building’s name.
She said, however, Skillset is still committed to the ideals of sustainability.
Ms Stocks said while it is disappointing that Mr Flannery is no longer Climate Change Commissioner, his loss will have no financial impact on the centre whatsoever.
She also said that very little of Skillset’s sustainability work is funded by the Commonwealth.
But, in what seems a positive move, Prime Minister Tony Abbott indicated before the election that the Coalition would support grass roots sustainability programs.
“Our focus is on providing grass roots programs and training, so hopefully there will be even greater opportunities for us in the future,” Ms Stocks said.
She said some measures include showcasing local examples of action people can take to reduce emissions, engaging people and businesses in conversations about climate change, detailing simple, cheap options for people who wish to change their behaviour and support collaboration between government, industry and the community.
