The Climate Institute’s John Connor says it is hard evidence the backflip cost Labor the seat of Melbourne.
“[Australians] don’t want to be insulted,” he said.
“They know that pollution is causing climate change and it’s getting worse. They know they want to move from a pollutant-dependent economy and they’re ready for some of the reforms.
“It’s got to be carefully done but it’s a mistake to avoid it at all costs.”
He says the poll sends a strong message to Labor.
“It’s got to lift its game, otherwise it will suffer in the polls as it did in some of these marginal seats but it’s also the problem for the Coalition,” he said.
“They’ve got to move on as modern conservatives are in the UK, who are actually taking action on pollution and climate change.”
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