In terms of climate action, one of the simplest things people can do is have a conversation.
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Elizabeth Wade, from Lal Lal, decided to do just that, booking an appointment with her local MP, Michaela Settle, to make clear her concerns.
"I'm a mother of two small children, and I'm hopeful the government can help set strong, science-based targets hoping to keep the climate safe in the future - we shared a bit about why we're hoping to have this happen," she said.
"Things like the severity or frequency of bushfires is something that's relevant to me living in Lal Lal, and also the impact of droughts and floods on farming and food security in the future.
"I was really pleased to feel that our local MP is working towards making positive change."
Ms Wade went to the office with representatives from Friends of the Earth, an organisation which is encouraging people to meet with government representatives so they know exactly what people are concerned about.
The group's current push is to "drive towards 1.5" - making sure governments commit to reducing global warming to no more than 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Right now, the Victorian government is aiming to be zero emissions by 2050, with targets building each year to that date - the renewable energy target is 25 per cent by 2020, and 50 per cent by 2030.
Friends of the Earth's latest report notes that the state government should be doing more to hit the target of less than 1.5 degrees warming - its analysis says Victoria must reduce emissions by 43 per cent by 2025 to do so.
In Ballarat and Bendigo this week, a parliamentary inquiry into tackling climate change in communities is under way - groups have been urged to submit what actions they're taking, and Ballarat's hearing includes Hepburn Shire Council and Z-Net, as well as the BREAZE and the City of Ballarat.
The committee is made up of representatives from the state government and opposition, and Friends of the Earth's climate change spokesperson Leigh Ewbank said the inquiry is an "excellent opportunity" as the state government finalised its policies.
"We think it's a really good opportunity for building bipartisan support for climate change action," he said.
"What our message is to Victorian MPs at the moment is, with the federal Coalition refusing to tackle the climate crisis, we do need to see greater leadership from Victoria, and they can show that by delivering science-based emissions targets."
He added it was important to plan ahead now for a "just transition", retaining jobs in industries and providing retraining where possible - the proposed renewable energy training facility at Federation University is a step in the right direction, he said.
Ms Settle said in a statement she's proud of the state government's record on the environment.
"As a state Victoria continues to lead the way on solar and particularly wind technologies," she said.
"The parliamentary inquiry is a fantastic way for members of the public to become involved, and have a say on a subject that will be a crucial part of determining our future. I look forward to seeing what recommendations come from the Inquiry when it concludes next year."
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