The time has come for a measured discussion on climate change in the wake of Australia’s bushfire crisis

NO ONE can dispute the science that tells us climate change is real. But amid all the posturing and outrage about the lack of action from our leaders on the issue, we are yet to see some real and affordable solutions

Mallacoota evacuees arrive at the Somerville Recreation Centre south-east of Melbourne after fleeing devastating bushfires

EVERY Australian – and millions around the world – have been touched by the unfolding bushfire crisis.

Thousands of people have lost their homes, several have lost their lives and millions of animals have perished.

It is an ecological disaster of mammoth proportions and it will take months – even years – to rebuild parts of Australia that have been impacted.

While many of those directly affected by the fires are focused solely on rebuilding their homes and their lives, it has unfortunately led to an unhealthy and vicious debate about the impacts of climate change.

No one can dispute the science that tells us climate change is real but there are many who still don’t believe it – and, just like those who do believe it, they are entitled to think that way.

But amid all the posturing and outrage about the lack of action from our leaders on the issue of climate change, we are yet to see some real and affordable solutions.

Residents look on as flames burn through bush at Lake Tabourie. Picture: Brett Hemmings/Getty Images

One of the major concerns of climate change sceptics is the risk that Australia throws billions of dollars at a problem that doesn’t exist.

Of course it’s a risk – but it’s a bigger risk to do nothing.

Our future generations, at the very least, deserve our country to unite as one on the issue of climate change and come up with a plan for the future.

Letting the debate play out on social media sites such as Twitter and Facebook is democratically unhealthy.

The experts and politicians need to come together and work out what Australia can do to address climate change but, at the same time, continue to build our economy.

We can and must do both.

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Australia is the lucky country and always will be. We are blessed to live in the greatest country on Earth.

As a world leader, now is the time for Australia to properly address the issue of climate change. No one wants to see a widespread crisis like this ever again.

We now have no choice but to talk in depth about climate change and its threat.

This is Australia’s moment.