The Greens have won their fourth seat in the federal parliament, with candidate Stephen Bates picking up Brisbane.
Confirmation on Saturday that the Greens have advanced ahead of Labor to secure the Liberal seat means the party has now won three additional seats, all inside Brisbane, to add them to the Melbourne seat. .
Stephen Bates overtook Labor to win the Brisbane seat. Credit: Dan Peled / Getty Images
They have also won six seats in the Senate, giving them a balance of power in the upper house with 12 senators.
Bates, a retail worker, said Saturday that the climate crisis and political integrity were key issues that resonated with the community.
“I look forward to working with the community and strongly advocating for action on the big issues we face. There has been a youth uprising in this election,” he said.
Loading
“As one of the youngest members of the new parliament, I think my election is a message that young people in Australia are refusing to be expelled any longer. We need action on the climate, the housing crisis and rent, the Medicare mental health, student debt and job insecurity. “
Greens leader Adam Bandt said the party would be “the third most powerful party in parliament”.
“Stephen’s fantastic victory means that the defeat of the Liberals is even deeper, and we are in a stronger position to push the Albanian government to take action against climate and inequality,” he said.
The morning edition newsletter is our guide to the most important and interesting stories, analysis, and insights of the day. Register here.