Australian Greens Leader Bob Brown today released a new national poll showing 54% support for scientists' and environmentalists' stronger position on emissions reduction with only 35% backing the government.

"The government is suggesting a minimum reduction target of just 5% but this poll shows the majority of Australians would favour at least 25% in line with the Greens' amendments to be moved in the Senate this coming fortnight."

"The government should support the Greens' amendments to turn its $16 billion big polluter hand-out legislation into an environmentally and economically effective scheme to tackle climate change," Senator Brown said.

Younger Australians were particularly supportive of the Greens' stronger position, with 70% in favour of a minimum reduction target of 25%, amongst those aged 16-24 years old and only 20% supporting the government's 5% target.

The Galaxy poll report is available on request.

Media contact: Peter Stahel 0433 005 727

The question:

The government has proposed a minimum emissions reduction target of 5% by the
year 2020. Scientists and environmentalists have suggested a more ambitious target
if we are to properly address the issue of climate change. In your personal view,
should the aim of the legislation be a minimum reduction of 5% as suggested by the
government, or a reduction of at least 25% as argued by scientists and
environmentalists?

5% target 35%
At least 25% target 54%
Neither/Don't know 12%