I'm Jazmin, I'm a Gomeroi woman based on Boandik lands, leading AYCC’s Mount Gambier group. I'm 17 years old, which means I can't vote this election - and that's why I'm sharing my story with you to ask you to vote for climate justice. 

The upcoming election holds immense significance for me as a First Nations climate activist. As someone deeply committed to climate justice, I see this election as a turning point with the potential to shape policies that directly impact climate action and Indigenous rights. For far too long, climate change has been one of Australia’s most pressing issues, yet it remains a low priority for decision-makers. This election presents an opportunity for meaningful change, representation, and sustainable practices that respect traditional lands and cultures. 

At seventeen, I may not be able to vote, but that doesn’t diminish my unwavering passion for advocating change. As a First Nations activist, I’ve experienced firsthand how climate change disproportionately affects me and my community. Growing up in Mount Gambier, I’ve seen how climate change deeply impacts my connection to Country and cultural practices. More intense bushfires and prolonged droughts threaten native species and traditional lands, making it even harder to access resources for cultural practices like weaving—an essential aspect of Aboriginal culture in the south. Rising temperatures and shifting rainfall patterns disrupt ecosystems, affecting plants and animals vital for food, medicine, and ceremonies.

Coming from a farming family, I’ve witnessed the devastating effects of unpredictable weather. Crops fail, livestock suffer, and livelihoods are lost, leaving families struggling to survive. Beyond the economic toll, climate change damages sacred sites and cultural heritage, threatening my ability to care for and maintain my connection to Country. These challenges are not just environmental—they’re deeply personal, and they fuel my determination to fight for a sustainable and just future.

Indigenous communities face a unique and disproportionate set of challenges in the context of climate change. Despite contributing minimally to global emissions, we are often the first and most severely impacted by rising sea levels, droughts, floods, and extreme weather events. These climate events not only threaten our livelihoods and way of life but also lead to the devastating loss of traditional knowledge, cultural sites, and sacred places—elements that are integral to our identity and survival. 

This is why, despite not being able to vote, I believe my activism in climate change and First Nations justice can influence people’s decision-making and bring attention to critical issues like climate justice.

Ultimately, this election isn’t just about policies—it’s about ensuring voices like mine are heard. Because let’s face it, if we’re not at the table, we’re on the menu, perpetuating a system that sweeps young voices under the rug and continues the cycle of systemic racism.

The policies created today will shape our tomorrow, where yet another boomer might resist change and keep the cycle spinning. But this election is our chance to amplify young voices and shift the narrative that climate change is a “future problem.” It’s happening now, and the need for policies and reforms is urgent. Climate change is a human problem, but it’s one we can tackle with collective action. That’s why we need to vote for climate justice.