Traditional owners from the Torres Strait are suing the Australian government for failing to protect their communities against climate change impacts.

Rising sea levels threaten the Torres Strait communities' way of life, leading to the loss of land and traditional food sources.

The legal action hinges on the Torres Strait Treaty, which mandates Australia to safeguard the people, culture, and environment of the Torres Strait.

The Australian government recognizes the Torres Strait's vulnerability but contests the imposition of legal 'duty of care' for climate policy decisions.

The traditional owners, backed by the Grata Foundation, argue that Australia's commitment to the Paris Agreement should compel stronger climate action.

Australia's government points to the necessity for global efforts on climate change, minimizing its own role due to relatively low total emissions globally.