Many countries have recorded significant environmental benefits due to a drop in local emissions.

Some say that we have had a glimpse of what our world would be like if we had fewer emissions.

What we have to consider is whether, when this pandemic is over, could we prepare for a world where clean air and blue skies could become the "new normal."

Post COVID -19 recovery will involve stimulus packages, using Government money to get our economy back on its feet.

The development of a stimulus package provides an opportunity to create a "green" recovery, moving us away from fossil fuels and creating jobs which are focussed on a green economy supported by Government policies based on expert scientific advice.

In its handling of the current crisis, our government has shown that it is capable of listening to experts and carrying out their recommendations.

Hopefully this willingness will transfer to backing expert advice on how to develop a post COVID recovery that recognises the necessity and the opportunities presented in developing a green post COVID recovery program.

If the Government were to take this course, it will receive support from many sectors of the community.

During 2020 we have experienced catastrophic bushfires and drought, both of which have been linked to climate change.

Because of this, the public has become more aware that climate change is real and is happening.

There is an increasing desire for decisive action.

A green recovery is also supported by powerful business interests, such as the Australian Industry Group, representative of more than 60,000 Australian businesses.

This group advocates a simultaneous approach to post COVID recovery economic stimulus incorporating climate change solutions.

The group acknowledges the necessity to work towards our 2050 emissions target whilst taking advantage of the economic opportunities offered by a future green economy.

Another indicator that the time is right to go green is the fact that many big companies, banks and financial institutions are ditching investment in fossil fuels -some at the insistence of their shareholders and some because investment in fossils fuels is considered to be no longer profitable.

They will be looking to invest in green alternatives.

The stars are in alignment.

Can we hope that our Government will seize the day.