Australian Greens Annual Report 2014

We have had a good year in the Australian Greens at the national level – a good year, but not a great year.

Our national office during this last election was a quiet hive of activity as we supported state campaigns with various activities.

It has been another a busy year for the Australian Greens, and the role of National Secretary continues to evolve.

The advances achieved as a national body should not be allowed to weaken. Now, more than ever, we have to work as one.

This year the work of the Policy Coordinating Committee has focused on finalising the first round of key priorities, continuing the development of new policies, and beginning the 2015 policy review process.

A huge amount of work has been done this year by the Global Issues Working Group, International Development Committee, Global Greens and Asia Pacific Greens Federation.

2013–14 has been a year of milestones, challenges and victories for the Australian Greens.

As Tony Abbott’s brutal agenda becomes clearer, one thing is obvious: the Greens are the true alternative to the Abbott Government.

It’s hard to talk about this year without acknowledging off the top that we have a PM and government that seem committed to making things harder for so many Australians.

We’re just one year into the Abbott administration and it’s becoming increasingly clear that Australians were sold a bait-and-switch, all surprises, failure of a Coalition government.

Looking back over the last 12 months it is hard to imagine how much the country has changed in the intervening period.

We face a battle for the soul of our country, and the Greens are the only ones with the vision and courage to truly take the fight up to Tony Abbott.

Again a huge year for the Australian Greens and my team, working in my portfolio areas of legal affairs, mental health, schools and veterans affairs.

With the election of the Abbott Government, hard-fought wins for the environment and women’s rights are at stake.

The election of the Liberal/National government has seen Australia shift further to the right on nearly every domestic and foreign issue.

My second full year as a senator was very busy and I’ve never been prouder to represent the people of Tasmania and stand up for Green values.

The next two years in the Parliament with the current Government are going to be a challenge.