Greens issue call to arms as leadership loser hits out

The newly elected Greens leader, NSW Senator David Shoebridge, vowed to confront Labor and the rising One Nation party as internal tensions emerged following the leadership change. Former deputy leader and leadership candidate Mehreen Faruqi expressed disappointment on social media, stating she believes her role can best be served outside the leadership team.

The vote saw Shoebridge win 7-4 against Faruqi after party leader Larissa Waters resigned due to health issues. Faruqi called for member voting in leadership elections, asserting without it, the party cannot be seen as grassroots. Shoebridge acknowledged the work of his predecessors and the challenges ahead, emphasizing the Greens' responsibility to oppose the government and right-wing parties, particularly One Nation.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers welcomed the change in leadership, stating Labor would work with the party in good faith. Senator Hodgins-May, new deputy leader, highlighted the party's focus on addressing risks from the gas industry, tech giants, and the upcoming climate crisis. The Greens, with a 12% primary vote in polls, holds the balance of power in the upper house.