Majority Support World Heritage Status Over Oil Exploration
ADELAIDE — South Australians have expressed strong opposition to oil drilling in the Great Australian Bight, advocating instead for World Heritage protection, according to the Great Australian Bight Alliance. The call for preservation over exploration reflects the views of more than 80% of the state’s residents.
The Alliance, a coalition of environmental advocates, disputes claims by Nationals Leader Matt Canavan, who attributed Australia’s fuel crisis to environmental policies. They argue that the crisis is exacerbated by a lack of investment in electric vehicles and continued reliance on fossil fuels.
Bipartisan Support for Environmental Protection
Josh Kirkman, CEO of Surfers for Climate, emphasised the unique marine life in the Bight, calling for its protection. He stated, “Locking it in as World Heritage is the final stand against big oil’s destruction, honoring South Australians’ overwhelming support for protection over risky drilling.”
Support for World Heritage status spans political divides in South Australia, with both the Labour government and the state Liberals backing the initiative. Senator Andrew McLachlan, Co-Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of World Heritage Protection, highlighted the need to preserve the region’s biodiversity for future generations.
Critics of Canavan’s stance, such as Alistair Allan from the Bob Brown Foundation, have labelled the proposals for drilling as reckless, arguing they jeopardize one of Australia’s pristine environments. The Great Australian Bight Alliance continues to urge leaders to prioritise environmental health and community welfare over oil exploration.
In addition to the political and environmental advocacy, local communities have organized rallies and awareness campaigns to further highlight the significance of the Bight. These activities aim to educate the public about the potential impacts of oil drilling and the benefits of achieving World Heritage status. Participants in these campaigns include a diverse range of stakeholders, from indigenous leaders to young environmental activists, all united in their commitment to preserve the region’s natural beauty and ecological integrity. Such collective efforts underscore the widespread community backing for sustainable alternatives and the long-term vision of protecting the Bight for generations to come.
Source: newshub.medianet.com.au
Last updated: 1 April 2026, 10:29 am
