This motion was brought forward by Greens MLA Laura Nuttall, and sought to ban public school sponsorships by the fossil fuel and gambling industries in the ACT. Thomas voted in support of the motion, with no amendments. 

Research shows Canberrans overwhelmingly support a ban on gambling advertising. With the federal government dragging its feet on this issue, Thomas believes the ACT Government can and must step up to set an example for other jurisdictions. He saw this motion as an opportunity to signal to the gambling industry that further restrictions on its influence were likely in the ACT.

Thomas’ view is that the fossil fuel industry has no business in sponsoring awards, events or teaching resources in our schools. Fossil fuels are not a consumer product, so the only sensible explanation for the sponsorship of school activities by fossil fuel companies is to perpetuate their social licence in the face of the existential threat posed by the renewable energy transition. Thomas was pleased to have been able to use his voice to vote on this issue and, in doing so, to represent the desire among his constituents for more ambitious climate action at all levels of government. 

Labor supported the motion, with Education Minister Yvette Berry MLA stating the motion ensures corporate sponsorships align with the ACT’s values. The Liberals opposed the motion, claiming that the money donated through these sponsorships are critical to funding programs for disadvantaged youth. The motion passed unamended.