Uncle Pabai Pabai and Uncle Paul Kabai’s lawsuit, claiming the Australian Government’s negligence in not taking robust measures against climate change, was dismissed by Justice Michael Wigney.

The appeal aims to challenge whether the Federal Court will uphold the government’s ability to endorse policies and projects that escalate greenhouse gas emissions, despite the increasing impact of climate change on First Nations communities.

“We must persist in our fight, not only for our communities but also for our kin on the mainland, in the Pacific, and for those affected by bushfires, floods, farmers, and schoolchildren,” they declared.

They continued, “Our hearts are heavy with the loss we foresee, yet they remain strong with the determination to continue our struggle.”