Doctors for the Environment Australia

Green Left's Leo Earle and Isaac Nellist spoke to attendees at the blockade of the world’s largest coal port in Muloobinba/Newcastle.

While Doctors for the Environment Australia warns that coal seam gas mining is toxic, the Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association has the Queensland government’s ear. Elena Garcia and Glen Beasley report on the toxic waste problem.

About 500 protesters rallied outside federal parliament on February 12 under the slogan "Stop Adani - Climate action now!" 

Australia needs an independent national agency charged with safeguarding the environment and delivering effective climate policy, according to a coalition of environmental, legal and medical NGOs.

Most Western democracies have established national regulatory action, such as the US Environmental Protection Agency — yet Australia is a notable exception.