Friends of The Earth Australia - Politics and Criticisms

Politics and Criticisms

FoE Australia sits at the left end of the political spectrum. While it is a 'peak' green group, it is one of the smaller such groups. It tends to operate from a grassroots political structure, which means it places less emphasis on lobbying of, or engagement with, either the federal Australian government or large corporations than most other national green groups. It uses research, lobbying, media work, political advocacy and peaceful direct action to achieve its aims.

It is known for developing lasting connections with a range of indigenous communities and organisations over areas of shared interest.

It has been criticised for carrying out non violent direct action by a range of conservative commentators (for instance, Andrew Bolt, columnist with the Herald Sun newspaper in Melbourne). Andrew Bolt has also accused them of being 'alarmist' on the question of climate change.

Some groups and people concerned about the impacts of population growth have been critical of FoE's focus on consumption and equity in regards to resource distribution and called on the organisation to campaign more directly for a reduction in human population.