Be Prepared: Climate Change, Security and Australia’s Defence Force

29.10.15 By
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Climate change is a significant and growing national security threat that is undermining the preparedness of the Australian Defence Force, our new report authored by Australia’s former Defence Chief found.

Be Prepared: Climate Change, Security and Australia’s Defence Force report reveals Australia is lagging behind its UK and US allies in preparing its militaries for climate change, with Australian Defence Force resources already under strain from the increased need for humanitarian assistance in response to climate-induced disasters.

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Key Findings

1. Climate change is a security threat. Climate change poses a significant and growing threat to human and societal wellbeing, threatening food, water, health and national security.

2. Global military forces are labelling climate change a “threat multiplier”.

3. Climate change puts the Australian Defence Force under pressure.

4. The UK and US militaries are rapidly preparing for climate change while Australia lags behind.

5. Strong action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is critical for limiting the security implications of a changing climate.

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