Helping whistleblowers speak up for climate action

NEWS | Democratic Freedoms

The Human Rights Law Centre supported scientists, doctors, nurses and ecologists to speak out against a proposed petrochemical hub for processing gas planned for Darwin Harbour.

As the climate crisis escalates, it is critical that we protect whistleblowers bravely pushing back against the fossil fuel industry.

This month, the Human Rights Law Centre supported scientists, doctors, nurses and ecologists to speak out against a proposed petrochemical hub for processing gas planned for Darwin Harbour. The Middle Arm development proposal has a 1.5 billion dollar subsidy from the Federal Government. If it goes ahead, it will raise carbon emissions, cause severe health risks people in Darwin and threaten local fauna. It is estimated that the development will generate 1.3 billion tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions over a 25-year period.

The Human Rights Law Centre’s Whistleblower Project supports individuals speaking truth to power. Right now, there is no greater truth needed than in the fight for climate justice.We are focused on assisting individuals blow the whistle on climate harm, greenwashing and health risks to create greater transparency and accountability.

Whistleblowers in Australia are being silenced by ineffective legal protections and a lack of support. They often suffer serious consequences, such as losing their job or being threatened with jail time, for having the courage to speak out. We supported our clients to safely give evidence to the Senate Inquiry into this dangerous proposal. As one of them said:

“It is a risk for all of us to come out here and speak out against this project, but it is also an obligation on all of us as doctors, nurses and health professionals – to speak out and inform the public when there is a risk to public health. We feel that that is more important than our employment”.

- our client

We will continue defending whistleblowers pushing for climate action.