In a dramatic display in the Senate, Greens environment spokesperson Sarah Hanson-Young protested Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s support for the Tasmanian salmon industry by holding up a decaying fish. This act was in response to Albanese’s recent decision to protect salmon farms in Tasmania, which has raised alarms due to potential adverse impacts on the critically endangered Maugean skate. Notably, Albanese took this action without consulting Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek, aiming to safeguard salmon farms in politically significant regions of Tasmania amidst ongoing environmental concerns.
During a recent Senate session, Hanson-Young directed a pointed question to Senator Jenny McAllister regarding the Prime Minister’s controversial measures. Holding the rotting salmon, she provocatively asked, “On the eve of the election, have you sold out your environmental credentials for a rotten, stinking extinction salmon?” This shocking display elicited gasps from her colleagues, prompting the Speaker to call for order and request the removal of the fish prop.
A bill allowing the continuation of salmon farming in Tasmania’s Macquarie Harbour and imposing stricter reviews of governmental decisions has passed the lower house. Efforts by the Greens to have the bill examined by a parliamentary committee were thwarted by the two leading parties. The legislation is currently under consideration in the Senate, reportedly garnering opposition support.
Meanwhile, Hollywood actor and environmental advocate Leonardo DiCaprio has weighed in on the situation, expressing concerns on social media about the fate of the Maugean skate and urging a halt to harmful salmon farming practices. He emphasised the ecological significance of Macquarie Harbour, highlighting its designation as a Key Biodiversity Area and the critical role it plays in maintaining global biodiversity.
DiCaprio has also been vocal about other governmental actions, particularly a mining operation in Western Australia, which he believes poses a significant threat to endangered species and vital habitats. He condemned the state’s logging policies, which still permit forest clearance for mining despite a statewide ban on native forest logging.
In a light-hearted response to questions about DiCaprio’s criticisms, Albanese dismissed the actor’s opinions and indicated a lack of awareness of his comments regarding mining in Western Australia. This exchange illustrates the growing tension between environmental advocacy and governmental policy, particularly regarding native habitats and species protection amid industry interests.