Leichhardt swings away from Greens

The composition of Leichhardt Council has changed significantly after an 11 per cent swing against the Greens, opening the door for the Liberals and Labor to make a play for power.

The 11 per cent swing against the Greens was directed towards Labor and the Liberals, who received swings of 6 per cent and 5.3 per cent respectively. Despite the result, the Greens still polled the majority in the traditionally progressive electorate, winning 35 per cent of the total vote.

While Labor doubled its representation on Council, the Liberals made history. Vera-Ann Hannaford became the first Liberal to be elected from the Gadigal/Annandale-Leichhardt Ward. Ms Hannaford said the swing to the Liberals and Labor emanated from dissatisfaction with the Greens.

“I think there was a lot of disillusionment with what the Greens have been doing on Council. Planning and DA’s have been the major problem,” she said.

Labor’s Darcy Byrne was re-elected as expected and said he was very happy with Labor doubling its representation on Council. Mr Byrne attributed Labor’s success to a good grassroots campaign.

“Local Labor ran a grassroots campaign in which we fought for better quality services,” Mr Byrne said. “We will now continue our fight for more childcare centres, sporting fields and free parking for locals.”

Independent John Stamolis, a crucial figure after the 2008 election in ensuring the Greens held majority, was not re-elected and lost his seat to Labor’s Frank Breen. “My own vote increased but the swing against the Greens was the problem,” Mr Stamolis said.

“Most of this went to the two major parties.”

Mr Stamolis said he was concerned about the way Council will run without independents. “It’s going to be about big party politics,” he said.

“This is the first Council in decades without independents and there will be a loss of diversity and focus on community issues.”

With Council split at four seats apiece among Labor, the Liberals and the Greens, speculation is rife about what alliances will form to ensure majority. It remains highly likely one party will be left out in the cold should a deal be brokered.

Ms Hannaford did not reveal much about any potential party alliances.

“It’s early days and it really depends on what issues are brought before the Council. However, it has been difficult getting things done with the Greens,” she said.

Mr Byrne also did not reveal much about alliances, but said no presumptions should be made.

“Liberal Councillor John Jobling has announced, wrongly and arrogantly, that there will be an alliance between the Liberal Party and Labor … There have been no discussions with the Liberals or anyone else,” he said.