NSW Greens: Your Vote Can Make a Difference For Australia’s Future

In the heart of Australia’s political landscape, the NSW Greens present a down-to-earth, hopeful vision that resonates deeply with the aspirations of many Australians. As the federal election approaches, their call is clear: it’s time for transformative change.

“In a wealthy country like Australia, everyone should be able to afford the basics: food, a safe home, free medical care, and world-class education,” says Greens deputy leader and Senator Mehreen Faruqi. 

Yet, reality paints quite a different picture. 

The price of essentials is higher than ever, young Australians find themselves locked out of the housing market, rents soar to unprecedented heights, and families grapple with burdensome mortgages. The major parties, deep-set in their ways, offer superficial remedies, or ignore – or even exacerbate – the issues, say spokespeople for the Greens.

The Greens say that casting a vote for Mehreen Faruqi in the Senate, Luc Velez in Sydney, and Hannah Thomas in Grayndler is a step towards compelling Labor to address these pressing issues, all while ensuring that Peter Dutton’s Liberals remain distant from power.​

Mehreen Faruqi: A trailblazer for justice

Dr. Mehreen Faruqi‘s journey is one of resilience and dedication. Born in Lahore, Pakistan, she earned her Bachelor of Civil Engineering before migrating to Australia in 1992. 

Here, she furthered her studies with a Master of Engineering Science and a PhD. in Environmental Engineering from the University of New South Wales. Her professional path spans roles in local government, consulting, and academia, culminating in her position as an associate professor. 

In 2013, Mehreen made history as the first Muslim woman to sit in an Australian parliament when she joined the NSW Legislative Council. By 2018, she ascended to the federal Senate, continuing her advocacy against racism and misogyny, and championing causes like universal healthcare and environmental sustainability. ​

Luc Velez: Championing community and climate

Luc Velez embodies the spirit of grassroots activism. As a community organiser, activist, and law student, he has immersed himself in the climate movement, volunteered at community legal centres, and serves on the board of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. 

Luc’s experiences have instilled in him a profound belief that politics thrives when rooted in community. He challenges the major parties on the decisions to prioritise property developers and the fossil fuel industry over the genuine needs of the people. ​

Hannah Thomas: A voice for the vulnerable

Hannah Thomas‘ narrative is one of empathy and action. An immigrant, lawyer, activist, and writer, she currently resides on unceded Gadigal land in Newtown. 

Her personal experiences with racism and visa insecurity fuel her commitment to social justice. Hannah is dedicated to addressing some of the most significant challenges of our time, advocating for policies that uplift and protect the most marginalised in our society.

NSW Greens: Challenging the two-party paradigm

The dominance of Labor and the Liberals has long defined Australian politics – and many believe that this two-party system has led to stagnation on critical issues. 

Labor’s approval of 33 new coal and gas initiatives has seen emissions rise beyond levels observed under previous administrations. Dutton’s nuclear agenda aims to prolong the reliance on fossil fuels. 

In housing, both of the major parties allocate substantial tax breaks to wealthy property investors, sidelining renters and first-home buyers. 

The Greens aim to disrupt an entrenched system, advocating for policies that prioritise people over profit.​

“We can’t keep voting for the same two parties and expecting change. It’s time for a different choice,” says Senator Faruqi.

The power of your vote

Democracy thrives when its citizens actively participate. This election is not just about choosing representatives; it’s about endorsing a vision for the future. 

The NSW Greens present hopeful solutions: universal healthcare that includes dental and mental health services, affordable and secure housing with regulated rent increases, measures against corporate price gouging, and free education spanning from early childhood to tertiary levels, accompanied by the abolition of student debt. 

Their commitment is underscored by a refusal to accept donations from big corporations, ensuring that their allegiance remains with the community. By taxing large corporations, they propose to raise over $514 billion, funds that would be channelled into enhancing public services and reducing living costs.​

Change is within reach, but it requires collective action. With the power of their votes, Australians can usher in a future of robust action on housing, climate, and healthcare, improving the lives of millions.

“This election, nothing changes unless your vote does. Together, we can create a better future with stronger action on housing, climate, and healthcare, and make life better for millions of people,” says Senator Faruqi.

“If you want change, you have to vote for it.”