Newcastle Activist Defaces Tanya Plibersek’s Office Over Coal Mine Approvals

20 December 2024

newy.com.au – A Newcastle man has been arrested after vandalising Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek’s electorate office in Redfern, Sydney, earlier today (Friday, 20 December 2024). The activist, identified as Zack Schofield, spray-painted the word “LIAR” in red across the office windows, protesting the minister’s recent approval of four coal mine expansions.

Schofield, associated with the environmental group Rising Tide, accused Minister Plibersek of misleading the public regarding her stance on new coal projects. He stated, “On the same day as she is approving four new coal projects, the Environment Minister is on social media gaslighting the public about not approving new coal mines.” He further criticised the government’s climate policies, asserting that new coal developments, whether expansions or new mines, pose significant threats to vulnerable populations and Australia’s Pacific neighbours.

The coal mine expansions in question include the Boggabri mine in New South Wales, and the Caval Ridge, Lake Vermont Meadowbrook, and Vulcan South mines in Queensland. These projects are expected to support approximately 3,000 jobs and produce coal primarily for steelmaking. Minister Plibersek emphasised that the approvals were granted under strict environmental conditions, aligning with Australia’s commitment to net-zero emissions.

Environmental groups and political figures have expressed strong opposition to these approvals. Greens Leader Adam Bandt and Independent Senator David Pocock highlighted concerns over the projected increase in CO2 emissions, estimated at 880 million tonnes, arguing that such decisions undermine efforts to combat climate change.

Minister Plibersek condemned the vandalism, stating that it diverted her staff from assisting residents with essential services. She reiterated the importance of conducting disagreements peacefully and lawfully, noting, “Australia is a great democracy. It’s terrific that we are free to disagree with governments, and with each other. But the way we disagree matters. It should be peaceful, respectful and lawful.”

Rising Tide has a history of environmental activism, including a recent blockade at Newcastle coal port that led to over 100 arrests. The group continues to advocate for the cessation of new fossil fuel projects, citing the urgent need for action against climate change.