Rumoured frontrunner David Shoebridge launches leadership bid ahead of Greens ballot at party retreat

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Published: 2026-09-30T00:16:38.318Z • Permanent link

David Shoebridge, a prominent environmental campaigner and former Greens MP, is set to launch a leadership bid for the Australian Greens party ahead of the upcoming federal election. Shoebridge's move is seen as a significant development in the party's leadership contest, with several other candidates already vying for the top spot. According to sources close to the party, Shoebridge will stand on a joint ticket with Steph Hodgins-May, a first-term senator from Victoria, marking a historic alliance between two prominent Greens figures.

Shoebridge's leadership bid is being seen as a strategic move to capitalize on the party's growing popularity and momentum. The Greens have been gaining ground in recent years, with a significant increase in voter support and a growing presence in state and local government. Shoebridge's experience as a former MP and his deep understanding of the party's inner workings make him a strong contender for the leadership. His decision to launch his bid ahead of the federal election is also seen as a calculated move to position himself for a strong showing in the ballot.

Shoebridge's leadership bid has already generated significant interest and attention within the party, with several senior figures expressing support for his candidacy. However, his bid is not without controversy, with some party members expressing concerns about his environmental record and his willingness to compromise on key issues. Despite these challenges, Shoebridge remains a popular figure within the party, and his leadership bid is seen as a significant development in the party's ongoing internal power struggle.

Shoebridge's leadership bid has significant implications for the Australian Greens party and its ongoing efforts to influence policy and shape the national conversation on environmental issues. The party has been gaining ground in recent years, with a significant increase in voter support and a growing presence in state and local government. Shoebridge's leadership bid is seen as a key factor in the party's growing momentum, and his ability to unite the party behind a clear vision and strategy will be crucial in determining the party's success in the federal election.

The Greens' environmental record has been a major focus of criticism in recent years, with some critics arguing that the party has been too willing to compromise on key issues. Shoebridge's leadership bid is seen as an opportunity to address these concerns and to position the party as a credible and effective voice on environmental issues. However, the party's ability to deliver on its environmental commitments will depend on its ability to balance competing interests and to build consensus within the party.

The Greens' leadership contest is also significant because of its potential impact on the party's relationship with other environmental groups and stakeholders. The party's ability to work collaboratively with these groups will be crucial in determining the party's success in the federal election, and Shoebridge's leadership bid is seen as an opportunity to strengthen the party's relationships with these stakeholders.