[Greens-Media] Wealth still increasing, environment still deteriorating: ABS

[Bennett, Ebony (Sen B. Brown)]

Wednesday, 24 May 2006

Wealth still increasing, environment still deteriorating: ABS

The Measures of Australia's progress, released today by the ABS, shows
that while wealth has increased by 0.9 percent per year since 1995, the
300,000 hectares of land-clearing each year is resulting in more species
being classified as endangered.

"The latest report on Australia's progress is good news for those
concerned solely with their bank balance and bad news for those
concerned with preserving Australia for their children," Greens leader
Bob Brown said today.

"The report shows that between 1995 and 2005 the number of bird and
mammal species listed as extinct, endangered or vulnerable rose by 41
per cent. Australia is experiencing rapid growth in its material
prosperity, but we are placing increasing pressure on our natural
environment."

 "The habitat destruction endangering the Swift Parrot is specifically
mentioned by the ABS. Sadly, the Commonwealth Government is actually
fighting a legal case in Tasmania to ensure that Swift Parrot habitat
can be logged," Senator Brown said.

The report also highlights the continuing disadvantage of Australia's
Indigenous peoples, whose life expectancy is 17 years less than the
national average.

"While average life expectancy has continued to increase, rising rates
of childhood obesity are likely to stop that trend in the coming
decades. We could prevent that from happening if we act now, but the
Federal Government has continually refused to take decisive action such
as banning junk food advertising to children," Senator Brown said.

"The ABS report provides sobering reading for those interested in the
Australia that we leave for our children. While there is some good news,
there is no sign of the urgent action that is needed to address climate
change or the crisis in indigenous health. If we can't act now, when we
are wealthier than ever, when can we?" Senator Brown asked.

Further information: Ebony Bennett 0409 164 603
www.on-trial.info


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Ebony Bennett
Media Adviser
Office of Greens Senator Bob Brown
Mobile: 0409 164 603
Ph: (02) 6277 3170
Fax: (02) 6277 3185
ebony.bennett at aph.gov.au