Overview
Adam Paul Bandt (born 11 March 1972) is an Australian politician and former industrial lawyer who leads the Australian Greens. He represents the federal electorate of Melbourne in the House of Representatives and is a prominent figure in contemporary Australian progressive politics. He became leader of the party after the resignation of Richard Di Natale and has been a public advocate for climate action, social justice and workers' rights.
Political career
Bandt first won the seat of Melbourne and entered federal parliament as a Greens member. He served as co-deputy leader of the Greens in two separate periods, from 2012 to 2015 and from 2017 to 2020. Following the departure of then-leader Richard Di Natale, Bandt was elected leader of the party in February 2020. His leadership marks a continued emphasis on linking environmental policy with economic and workplace concerns.
Policy focus and parliamentary role
As leader of the Australian Greens, and as the federal MP for Melbourne, Bandt places emphasis on several core priorities. These include accelerating action on climate change, advocating for stronger public services, promoting housing affordability and defending workers' rights. In parliament he plays a role in shaping legislation from the crossbench and in negotiating with other parties on issues where balance of power is relevant.
Background and public profile
Before entering parliament Bandt worked as an industrial lawyer. His professional background and activist roots inform his approach to policy, combining workplace law experience with environmental campaigning. He is notable among Greens leaders for serving in the House of Representatives rather than the Senate, which gives him a direct role in lower-house debates and local constituency work.
Positions and significance
- Climate policy and a just transition for workers
- Expansion of public health, education and social housing
- Stronger industrial and workplace protections
- Progressive taxation and corporate accountability
Bandt's leadership reflects the contemporary Greens strategy of broadening appeal beyond environmental issues to include social and economic justice. His tenure continues to shape the party's role in national debates and its interactions with both major parties and community movements. For more on the change of leadership in 2020, see the announcement following Richard Di Natale's resignation: Richard Di Natale resignation and leadership transition.