An Essential Poll shows 60% of Australians think world leaders should act on climate change now or in the next 12 months.

Politicians are lagging behind community opinion with 47% of Australians in the poll supporting a ban on new coal mines and coal mine expansions, according to GetUp! campaigns director Sam La Rocca.

“Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has the mandate he needs to unshackle Australia from the outdated and dirty fossil fuels that pollute our air and water, threaten our way of life, and make us sick,” he said.

“Australians want a comprehensive plan that frees us from polluting energy so we can enjoy the benefits of clean air and water, and a safer climate.

“The Paris climate talks will be crawling with coal lobbyists trying to hold us back from harnessing the worldwide renewable power boom and the better life that comes with it.”

Thousands of people are expected to fill the streets for People’s Climate marches across Australia next month to show that Australia is ready to play its part in tackling global warming, La Rocca said.

“Political leaders need to join the community to tackle this global challenge not sell out our vision for a better future,” he said.