Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the 2025 Federal Election, which will be held on Saturday, 3 May 2025.
The Macedon Ranges Shire is divided between the electorates of Bendigo and McEwen.
For this election, MRSG has asked all candidates in both electorates to respond to six key questions on sustainability and climate action.
On this page, you’ll find:
A copy of the email we sent to candidates
A list of the candidates we contacted
The responses we received
We will publish all responses in full as they are received.
Following the response deadline on Friday, 18 April, a subgroup of MRSG members will review and summarise the answers to help our community make informed voting decisions. Keep an eye out for our social media posts and news articles.
Letter sent to candidates on Friday, 4 April 2025, at 4:41 pm.
Dear Bendigo and McEwen candidates,
(please note we have sent this to Wayne Taylor and Ali Anioniou through their website, and been unable to find contact details for Evelyn Keetelaar)
The Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group (MRSG) is a volunteer organisation with over 400 members. For more information about us, please visit our website at [here]. We are passionate about fostering a sustainable future for your electorate and the MRSG Committee has endorsed the following questions to be sent to our local Federal Candidates seeking election.
As the federal election approaches, we aim to help our members make informed voting decisions by sharing each candidate's stance on sustainability challenges that align with MRSG's purpose. We invite you to answer the six questions below on essential topics, including energy, biodiversity, and emissions reduction. MRSG will publish your complete response on our website (here), in our newsletter, and it may also appear in newspaper articles. For transparency, MRSG will publish a non-response on our website if you choose not to reply, and we may also include the fact that you did not respond in any news articles.
Please send your responses by close of business on Friday 18 April, to president@mrsg.org.au. We'd be happy to arrange a suitable time if you have any questions or would like to confirm our purpose.
Thank you for your engagement with these vital issues. We look forward to hearing back from you.
QUESTIONS:
RENEWABLE ENERGY: Due to significant technological advancements, renewable energy has become the most cost-effective source of reliable electricity. A recent CSIRO study found that an electricity grid based on 95% renewable energy sources can provide excellent reliability at a very low cost (see a link to the report series here). It can also be easily scaled up to meet growing demand. In your view, should Australia’s energy future be driven primarily by renewable energy or nuclear power? What factors, including cost, waste, and implementation timelines, do you consider most important in making this decision?
COMMUNITY RESILIENCE: As climate-linked disasters continue to increase, it is expected that by 2035, at least 10% of homes in Australia will be uninsurable (see related reports here, here, and here). In one part of the McEwen electorate, this figure reaches as high as 100%, and in the Bendigo electorate, it reaches as high as 94.71% (see here). What climate impacts concern you the most? What are the priority actions you would take to address them if elected?
BIODIVERSITY: McEwen and Bendigo encompass regions with significant biodiversity. Suppose you were part of the federal government. What measures would you implement to protect local ecosystems from threats such as invasive species, urban expansion, and habitat fragmentation?
CIRCULARITY: Many communities and businesses in Bendigo and McEwen are eager to transition to a circular economy to maximise resource efficiency and reduce waste. If elected, what policies or incentives would you support to help businesses and local governments adopt circular economy principles, such as product stewardship, waste reduction, and material reuse?
TRANSPORT EMISSIONS: As we see declines in emissions from other sectors, the transport sector’s emissions (see here), particularly those related to freight and shipping, continue to grow, causing significant health problems. If you were part of the federal government, what types of policies or actions would you seek to implement to reduce emissions in the transport sector?
CLIMATE WARMING: The World Meteorological Organization warns that global temperatures are likely to temporarily exceed 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels within the next five years (see here). How do you propose developing climate policies that support both the built and natural environments, ensuring that our residents, businesses, and biodiversity can thrive in a changing climate? What measures will you implement to ultimately return warming to 1.5°C, in line with the Paris Agreement?
Kind wishes and all the very best with your campaigns.
For and on behalf of the MRSG,
Lenka
Lenka Thompson (she/her)
President
MRSG - Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group mrsg.org.au
List of candidates who received the email.
Last update 28/4/2025
Bendigo Candidates:
Andrew Lethleane from Nationals: No response,
Avery Barnett-Dace from Greens: Response received 23 April 2025, see response below.
Evelyn Keetelaar from Family First: NOT SENT, missing contact details.
Lisa Chesters (Sitting MP) from ALP: Response received 28 April 2025, see response below.
Matt Evans from LIB: No response.
Rohan Tyler from Victorian Socialists: Response received 15 April 2025, see response below.
Wayne Taylor from Legalize Cannabis Party: No response.
McEwen candidates:
Ali Antoniou from Gerard Rennick People First: No response.
Cassandra Bell from Family First: No response.
Erin McGrath from Fusion: No response.
Jason McClintock from LIB: No response.
Marley McRae McLeod from GRN: Response received 16 April 2025, see response below.
Rob Mitchell (Sitting MP) from ALP: No response.
If you have any questions about this initiative, please forward them to robert.bruhn@mrsg.org.au.
Responses:
Email from Rohan Tyler.
G'day Lenka,
Thank you for reaching out on behalf of The Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group!
Here are some responses for your survey.
I have the view that Australia needs to immediately start the transition to renewable energy, and this in no way includes nuclear energy. We need to stop opening new coal and gas projects and stop giving tax breaks to corporations that destroy our earth.
In the area of Bendigo I used to live in we experienced flooding events, this destroyed houses, roads and added so much stress to everyday life, these floods are not natural and it is the result of the rapidly changing climate, my priority to address them is educating that the climate crisis isn't just making earth a little hotter it is creating these disasters that make it harder to live and at dies can lead to death.
I would make sure that no more companies can start to dig up our natural lands and destroy them for a quick buck. Bendigo is full of beautiful bushland and other natural environments, in this current system if a corporation pays enough they get the free pass to destroy local lands.
I would promote the idea of circular economies through the role of advocacy I would have in Local Governments and in state government. Instead of tax breaks going to corporations that destroy the government we can help implement easier means for recycling in Australia.
Transport emissions are going through the roof, this is a direct result of car dependency, if we move to more pedestrian and bike safe infrastructure we can reduce the emissions of cars, introducing free and frequent public transport it encourages people to hop on buses, trams and trains rather than driving in emission heavy cars.
If elected I will advocate for no more coal and gas operations to be opened, and to encourage the use renewable energies and no nuclear.
Thank you for reaching out, if you wish to read further on VS climate policy please read here, if you need anything else from me feel free to email back.
Thanks,
Rohan Tyler
Victorian Socialists Candidate for Bendigo
Email from Marley McRae McLeod.
The format has been edited, but the content has been left as is.
Prelude:
Dear Lenka,
Thank you for your keen engagement in the local sustainability movement. Your efforts do not go unnoticed! It was most wonderful to join you recently at the Sustainability and Energy Expo in Riddells Creek.
Please find my answers to your questionnaire below.
Marley McRae McLeod
Greens Candidate for McEwen
Question 1)
I am wholeheartedly opposed to nuclear energy and am an avid and dedicated supporter of renewable energy.
The LNP policy is ludicrously expensive and intended merely to kill the energy debate. The LNP have no plans to implement it at all. It is designed to kick the can down the road.
I would take the CSIRO’s word over the LNP every day of the week. So should all concerned voters.
I refer your members to the Victorian Greens website at
https://greens.org.au/vic/platform/climate
Question 2)
We are facing a climate calamity. Neither major party nor the mainstream media are willing to address this issue. The billionaires here in Australia (and everywhere) want to make a profit now as they have no concern for the future, not even for that of their own children.
If we keep burning fossil fuels at the current rate, our planet will become unlivable. We need urgent action now. I refer you to https://greens.org.au/vic/platform/climate for further information on this vital issue.
Question 3)
Urban expansion will happen. The Human population continues to grow. All future development has to be carefully planned and has to take into account the animals and plants we share our environment with. There is no Planet B!
The Victorian Greens Website directly refers to these issues.
The Greens’ priorities in protecting local ecosystems here in McEwen are:
1) 100% renewable energy.
2) Protecting the environment.
3) Making housing affordable.
4) Climate friendly transport.
Question 4)
All politics is local. International mega corporations should pay tax in Australia on profits generated in Australia.
These are admirable goals and should be supported, noting of course that environmental considerations must always be at the forefront of everybody’s thinking.
I would assist in developing such programs if I were elected.
Question 5)
All development has to be sustainable. We need to wean society off fossil fuels. I acknowledge the need for a just transition where nobody is left behind.
I support the Greens policy: Transport, Infrastructure and sustainable cities. The detailed policy is at: https://greens.org.au/portfolios/transport-infrastructure-and-sustainable-cities
Question 6)
This has been the mainstay of Greens philosophy since the Victorian Greens were founded over 30 years ago.
The policy is set out at: https://greens.org.au/climate.
The key issues are:
1) Stop new coal and gas.
2) Expand publicly owned renewable energy.
3) End the billions in hand outs to coal, oil and gas companies.
4) End native forest logging.
5) Lower power bills by transitioning to more reliable clean energy.
6) Subsidise solar batteries for homes and businesses.
7) End fossil fuel subsidies for all industries except agriculture.
8) Create thousands of jobs during the transition,
9) Provide grants and low-interest loans to help households and small businesses electrify, install solar batteries, and cut emissions and energy bills.
I acknowledge the need for a just transition. We need to ensure that nobody is left behind. No issue exists in isolation, there is no such thing as a single issue struggle. This is to say that housing, climate, and the cost of living are all impacted by one-another. For example, the housing crisis is exacerbated in flood plains each time a flood hits. These issues are all intertwined and as a society we must address all of these compounding issues.
Postlude:
Thank you very much for your time, and a heartfelt thanks for all of the brilliant work you do in the local community.
Marley McRae McLeod for McEwen.
Email from Avery Barnett-Dacey
Hi Lenka,
Apologies for my delayed response on this - hopefully it isn’t too late! Thanks for your dedication to local sustainability. As the Greens candidate for Bendigo, I’m committed to bold, evidence-based action that protects people, nature, and future generations.
RENEWABLE ENERGY
Central Victoria has abundant sun and wind—resources we should be leading the country in harnessing. Renewables are now the cheapest, fastest, and cleanest way to power our homes and industry.
The Greens support:
100% renewable electricity by 2030
Ending coal and gas subsidies and blocking nuclear power
Public investment in solar, wind, and battery storage
Support for community energy projects and transmission upgrades
COMMUNITY RESILIENCE
Communities across our region are facing greater risks from floods, fires, and heatwaves. We need federal support that reduces risk now and helps communities adapt to the challenges ahead.
The Greens will:
Expand the reinsurance pool to cover all natural disasters
Require fossil fuel companies to contribute to disaster funds
Establish a Climate Emergency Response Service
Fund climate-resilient homes and emergency preparedness
BIODIVERSITY
From box-ironbark forests to creekline habitats, our region holds immense ecological value. We must act urgently to protect these landscapes from ongoing destruction and fragmentation.
The Greens will:
Create a $5 billion Protected Areas Fund
Invest $20 billion in threatened species and habitat recovery
End native forest logging and deforestation
Strengthen national nature laws and support Indigenous land management
CIRCULARITY
Local businesses and councils are leading the way on waste reduction, but they need better federal support. A circular economy reduces pollution, creates jobs, and conserves resources.
The Greens support:
National "Right to Repair" and product stewardship laws
A 20% plastic packaging reduction target by 2030
Local reuse, repair, and remanufacturing infrastructure
A $50 million innovation fund for circular economy pilots
TRANSPORT EMISSIONS
Transport is one of the largest and fastest-growing sources of emissions in Australia. We must shift to cleaner, more accessible, and future-proof transport systems.
The Greens will:
Mandate fuel efficiency and emissions standards
Electrify freight routes and invest in rail
Make public transport free and improve regional access
Expand EV charging infrastructure and support local EV manufacturing
CLIMATE WARMING
We’re running out of time to avoid catastrophic warming—but we still have choices. Bold, science-backed action this decade is critical to protecting lives, ecosystems, and future generations.
The Greens will:
Legislate a 75% emissions cut by 2030 and net zero by 2035
Phase out coal and gas exports with a just transition
Establish a National Climate Action Taskforce
Invest in ecological restoration and green jobs
Thank you again for the opportunity to respond. I’m proud to stand with communities working for a safe, sustainable future.
AVERY BARNETT-DACEY
She / They
Dja Dja Wurrung Country
Bendigo Candidate, Victorian Greens
Email from lisa chester (MP) federal member for bendigo.
The format has been edited, but the content has been left as is.
Prelude:
Ms Lenka Thompson
President
Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group
Dear Ms Thompson
Please find responses to the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group’s questions below:
Question 1)
Under changes made by the Albanese Labor Government, we are on track to deliver 82% renewable
energy by 2030. Around 46 per cent of our national grid is now powered by renewables – more than
halfway to reaching our target and a huge uplift from around 30% when we came to Government.
This is a policy that Peter Dutton wants to junk for a nuclear policy that extends coal and that the
independent Climate Change Authority says amounts to a 2 billion tonne ‘emissions bomb’. The
Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis has released modelling that shows household
energy bills will increase by at least $665, and more than $1,100, under Peter Dutton’s plan. To
accommodate this nuclear obsession, the Liberals will switch off household solar around 67 percent
of the time, according to the Smart Energy Council. Peter Dutton’s nuclear scheme is too risky and
expensive – it will take too long, cost too much, drive up bills and delay the closure of ageing and
unreliable coal plants.
Earlier this month, we announced that a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will make batteries
cheaper, slashing energy bills for households, small businesses and community facilities by up to 90
per cent to help ease the cost of living. We will roll out our $2.3 billion Cheaper Home Batteries
Program from 1 July 2025. This will reduce the cost of a typical installed battery by 30 per cent –
with over one million new batteries expected by 2030. It will help households reduce reliance on the
grid – and take back control of their power bill.
We are rolling out $1.7 billion through our Energy Savings program, providing real financial support
to households, businesses and local governments to invest in renewable energy and energy
efficiency to cut their bills and emissions for good. That includes our $1 billion Household Energy
Upgrades Fund (HEUF), which is helping make low-cost finance available for households to upgrade
their homes with battery-ready solar PV, modern energy efficient appliances and other energy
efficient improvements. We are also rolling out $800 million to upgrade 100,000 social housing
properties with retrofits such as insulation, electrification, solar and batteries.
Question 2)
Due to climate change, natural disasters are becoming more frequent and more intense, and
communities are experiencing real impacts, right now. We are cleaning up Australia’s climate
credibility after a decade of denial, delay and neglect.
We’re investing in mitigation and resilience measures to help better protect communities while also
putting downward pressure on insurance premiums
As part of our $1billion Disaster Ready Fund to increase community resilience and reduce disaster
risk, we contributed $20 million towards the Queensland Household Resilience Program. The
program which has helped households make their homes more resilient, which has in turn enabled
participants to save, on average, 13% on their insurance premiums.
We also provided financial support for both the NSW and Queensland Resilient Homes Funds to
relocate those most at risk, and increase the resilience of homes and communities.
The Albanese Labor Government added climate resilience as an objective of the Australian Building
Codes Board, to enable the Board to consider future standards to make buildings more resilient to
extreme weather events.
We contributed $3 million towards the Bushfire Resilience Rating Home Assessment App; users who
complete the assessment and make their homes more resilient receive discounts on their household
insurance premiums from NRMA and Suncorp.
Using this, over 31,000 households have taken steps to reduce the risk of their homes against a
bushfire. Actions taken reduced the bushfire peril component of policies by an average of 42%.
Question 3)
Our government is serious about protecting our native species. That’s why we’re investing more
than $550 million to better protect threatened plants and animals and tackle the feral animals and
weeds killing our native species. This includes projects like restoring koala habitat, tackling invasive
pests like feral cats, and supporting local groups doing work on the ground to care for native plants
and animals.
We’re proud that our government has protected an extra 100 million hectares of land and sea, an
area the size of Germany, Italy and Norway combined. We’ve also committed an additional $250
million in this budget to meet our commitment to protect 30% of Australia’s land mass by 2030 – we
already protect more than 50% or our oceans. You can’t protect our iconic threatened species like
the koala and the greater bilby without protecting where they live – that’s why this commitment is
so important.
We will also reform our environment laws to deliver both faster decision making, and better
environmental protections, including Australia’s first national EPA
Question 4)
The Albanese Labor Government established Australia’s first National Circular Economy Framework.
The Framework has clear targets to drive our country’s transition to a circular economy. These
include targets for wasting less per person by making products work longer for people, and recycling
more. One of the first actions of the Albanese Labor Government was to join the High Ambition
Coalition to End Plastic Pollution co-led by Norway and Rwanda and including the United Kingdom,
Germany, France and Canada.
All of this is at risk under Peter Dutton and the Liberals. They don’t believe in protecting and
restoring nature. We need a re-elected Albanese Labor government to build on the achievements of
our first term in office and take further action to reduce waste and stop pollution
Question 5)
The best way to decarbonise Australia’s vehicle fleet is through the New Vehicle Efficiency
Standards, which began on January 1, 2025. Under Labor we are now seeing over 122 new models
available, including some for under $35,000 – and they're getting cheaper. We've more than tripled
the number of EV choices on offer since coming to Government, and more than a quarter of new
vehicles in Australia now are either hybrid or electric.
Labor also legislated Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) Concessions for electric vehicles and hybrids in the
Treasury Laws Amendment (Electric Car Discount) Act 2022. The FBT exemptions in that legislation
will continue to encourage greater take‑up of electric vehicles and reduce transport emissions. The
legislation provides an FBT exemption for eligible cars made available for employees by employers.
Question 6)
Labor is committed to the Paris Agreement’s goals of holding the increase in the global average
temperature to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and pursuing efforts to limit temperature
increase to 1.5°C.
This is something the Liberal candidate for Gilmore has confirmed he will trash, saying a 2035 Paris
Agreement target is ‘off the table by the Liberal Party and with good reason’. At COP28, Labor
advocated for and secured an agreement committing to transition away from fossil fuels in energy
systems, tripling global renewable energy capacity, and doubling the rate of energy efficiency
improvements by 2030.
Australia is producing record renewable electricity and emissions are lower than when the
Albanese Government came to office, with the country on track to achieve our emissions reduction
goals.
postlude:
Locally, Labor is working with local councils and land care groups to improve the health of
our creeks, rivers and waterways by investing in the Forest Creek and Reimagining Bendigo
Creek projects.
Federal Labor delivered $2 million late last year to fund projects that will help restore
habitat and create wildlife linkages in Forest Creek.
The projects funded in this announcement include:
• $1.8 million to re-naturalise a reach of Forest Creek in Central Castlemaine and help
undo damage to the waterway that dates back to the Gold Rush.
• $200,000 to help improve streambank and aquatic habitats critical for Platypus and
other threatened species in Campbells Creek.
A re-elected Labor Government will also deliver $7 million to the City of Greater Bendigo's
Reimagining Bendigo Creek project.
The funding will restore critical habitat along the creek, help manage flood risk, and
empower Traditional Owners to practice and promote cultural and spiritual connections to
the creek.
Yours sincerely