On 24 November at 4pm, Member for Makin, Tony Zappia, will stand in Federal Parliament to present a motion calling for an investigation into legislation to reduce light pollution.
This motion, put forward by the Australasian Dark Sky Alliance (ADSA), follows the success of a national petition that gathered more than 12,000 signatures — a clear signal that Australians care deeply about protecting the night environment.
Light pollution is one of the most easily reversible environmental issues we face. By using light more thoughtfully — only where, when, and how it’s needed — we can save energy, cut carbon emissions, and reduce public spending on wasted light. Just as importantly, we can restore the natural darkness that so many species, and we ourselves, depend on for healthy functioning.
Countries like France and Germany have already demonstrated what’s possible. France’s national lighting regulations have reduced municipal energy use by up to 41%, while Germany’s curfews and shielding requirements have cut both electricity costs and CO₂ emissions without compromising safety.
Now, Australia has the opportunity to follow suit — to create a national framework that supports councils, businesses, and households in reducing unnecessary light while preserving biodiversity and our starry skies for generations to come.
But it won’t happen without public support.
We’re asking you — as a concerned citizen, astronomer, nature lover, or community advocate — to write to your local Member of Parliament and urge them to support Tony Zappia’s motion.
Every voice matters — and every letter counts. To make it easy, we’ve drafted an example letter and included the Ministerial Briefings to help you take action.
