Brisbane Green candidate Stephen Bates has claimed victory in the electorate, while his Labor opponent has conceded. Bates spoke at a news conference on Saturday and described what will be the party’s fourth victory in the lower house in the federal election as a reflection of how people in his constituency feel.
“We knew people were interested in what we were saying and we knew people liked our policies,” he said.
Brisbane Green candidate Stephen Bates has claimed victory in the electorate, while his Labor opponent has given way. (Getty)
“They told us they wanted to get 100% publicly owned renewable energy, they wanted dental and mental health on Medicare, they wanted action against the housing crisis.
“It has become a victory for us.”
The Greens have also secured victories in the Griffiths and Ryan seats and leader Adam Bandt also retained the Melbourne seat, giving the party its best result in the House of Representatives.
Labor candidate Madonna Jarrett said that while the count “is still ongoing, it is clear we will not cross the line here in Brisbane”.
“While I’m disappointed, I couldn’t be more proud of the campaign we’ve done here in Brisbane over the last twelve months,” he said.
“Earlier this afternoon, I called Stephen Bates to congratulate him on his successful campaign.
“I wish him all the best for the next term.”
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Adam Bandt took the news to Twitter, telling his followers that “the greenslide continues.”
“Stephen’s fantastic victory means the Liberals’ defeat is even deeper,” Bandt said.
“We are the third most powerful party in Parliament and we are ready to fight for action on climate and inequality.”