New Greens leader 'angry' on behalf of everyday workers

David Shoebridge, the new leader of the progressive Greens party, admits to feeling angry about the state of the nation. Since assuming his role four years ago, he has witnessed soaring living costs, foreign wars, and the rise of far-right politics. As the party's first contested leadership ballot winner, Shoebridge is determined to make a difference, particularly through tax reform.

He highlights the disparity between corporate tax avoidance and the struggles of everyday workers, such as retail employees unable to afford rent. Shoebridge, a former Sydney barrister with a decade of state politics experience, argues that federal governments often fail to address practical issues like hospitals, roads, and schools, despite managing them primarily at the state level.

He aims to reshape the Greens' reputation and win over everyday Australians, particularly the growing Gen Z demographic and young women. While the party has struggled to gain more than 12% of the vote in recent elections, Shoebridge and Deputy Steph Hodgins-May have sought to boost their appeal through social media campaigns on issues like anti-AUKUS and pro-gas tax policies.

The Greens' voter base, however, declines as people age, with many former major-party supporters now favoring One Nation. Shoebridge acknowledges his ambition to replace Labor, drawing inspiration from the success of the UK Greens under leader Zack Polanski. He intends to press for significant change and challenges the status quo, much like successful political movements in the US and UK.