"Next month, Australia is heading to the polls and all indications are that this will be an election fought on climate change," said Liisa Rusanen, organiser with the Coffs Coast Climate Action Group.

"Polling shows that concern about climate is at an all time high - and it's little wonder with so many Australian communities facing record-breaking heatwaves, bushfires, floods, droughts and cyclones. We know that coal is the biggest cause and that renewable energy is the way forward.

"With Hartsuyker retiring, Cowper will be voting for a new representative, and it's expected to be very close.

"This is a big opportunity to ensure our next MP is a climate leader. So far six candidates have confirmed they'll be at this Climate Election Forum. We are keen to hear from them on their climate policies, including their position on Adani's coal mine, a critical test of any climate champion."

All community members are invited to bring their questions on climate-related policies to the free event at C.ex Coffs at 7pm on Tuesday April 30.

Coffs Coast Climate Action Group is a local, non-partisan, volunteer-run community group. For further details see www.coffsclimateaction.weebly.com.

What: Cowper Climate Election Forum

When: 7pm, Tuesday April 30

Where: C.ex Coffs, the Blue Room, Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour