Polling Reveals Support for Clean Energy Shift
Residents of Central Queensland are increasingly worried about climate change. According to a recent poll by Farmers for Climate Action, a strong majority advocate for clean energy.
The survey included responses from 357 residents, with 204 from Gladstone and 153 from other regions in Central Queensland. It showed that 30% of Gladstone residents and 28% from the broader Central Queensland area have grown more concerned about climate change over the past year.
Heatwaves and floods cause major concerns. In Gladstone, 74% of residents mentioned these, followed by bushfires at 69%. In other parts of Central Queensland, 70% worry about floods, while heatwaves and droughts each concern 63%.
Support for Clean Energy
An impressive 65% of residents in Gladstone and 61% in Central Queensland favour a shift towards clean energy. Solar power is seen as a key future energy source, acknowledged by 59% in Gladstone and 68% across Central Queensland.
Verity Morgan-Schmidt, CEO of Farmers for Climate Action, stated, “Residents across the region have become more concerned about climate change in the past 12 months.” According to her, 43% of Gladstone residents and 48% from Central Queensland blame high energy bills on energy company profiteering rather than clean energy.
Despite robust support for clean energy, a perception gap exists: only 49% of Gladstone and 37% of Central Queensland residents believe there is majority community support for this transition.
The poll is part of a broader study involving 1,965 residents in key renewable energy zones. It underscores regional attitudes towards renewable energy and climate change concerns.
Energy companies, coal breakdowns, and international events are also blamed for rising energy costs. Only 15% of Gladstone respondents and 18% from Central Queensland attribute these costs to clean energy.
When it comes to future energy sources, 46% in Gladstone and 36% in Central Queensland see onshore wind as significant. Coal and gas are viewed as less significant, with nuclear energy garnering the least support.
Farmers for Climate Action emphasises the importance of listening to regional voices rather than being swayed by media and social media algorithms promoting conflict. The organisation aims to have the voices of regional communities heard, highlighting the stark differences in attitudes between Gladstone and other parts of Central Queensland.
Last updated: 5 May 2026, 12:06 pm
