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‘Mabo didn’t win the first time’: Torres Strait Islanders will continue climate fight

16 Jul 2025

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The Federal Court has dismissed a landmark class action brought by Uncles Paul Kabai and Pabai Pabai – two Torres Strait Islander men who said Canberra owed them a duty of care to safeguard their homelands from rising seas. Justice Michael Wigney accepted the islands are being “ravaged by human-induced climate change,” yet ruled the law offers “no real or effective” path to relief – and the Commonwealth argued Torres Strait Islanders can “protect themselves” by moving. The Uncles insist losing is not an option and vow to keep fighting. Today, Gunaikurnai and Wotjobaluk writer and contributor to The Saturday Paper Ben Abbatangelo on how a court recognised the crisis but left the Torres Strait to face it alone – and what the government’s defence reveals about its climate stance. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Gunaikurnai and Wotjobaluk writer and contributor to The Saturday Paper, Ben Abbatangelo.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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