CATE BLANCHETT has dismissed attacks by Tony Abbott and other opponents of a carbon price, saying she will continue to do all she can to tackle climate change.

Speaking exclusively to the Herald yesterday, the Oscar-winning actress said she had expected the venom directed at her for appearing in a commercial that urged people to ''say yes'' to a price on carbon.

Cate Blanchett ... ‘‘There is a societal cost of increased pollution and that's what I'm passionate about as a mother.’' Credit:Marco Del Grande

''I'm not really surprised by the reactions from people on the other side of the debate. People are entitled to their opinion,'' she said.

Equally, Blanchett said she was undeterred. ''Everyone will benefit if we protect the environment. There is a societal cost of increased pollution and that's what I'm passionate about as a mother. That's where it gets me in the gut,'' she said. ''I can't look my children in the face if I'm not trying to do something in my small way and to urge other people.''