2025-01-29
Dr Mehreen Faruqi, Deputy Greens Leader and Senator for New South Wales, is excited to announce the preselection of Manal Bahsa as the candidate for Barton and Jocelyn Brewer the candidate for Watson at the upcoming federal election.
Lines attributable to Senator Mehreen Faruqi, Deputy Leader of the Australian Greens and Senator for NSW:
"I’m thrilled to see these extraordinary women stepping up to represent the Greens in Barton and Watson. They are from and for their communities.
“Jocelyn is a former teacher, parent and psychologist. She is ready to fiercely fight for change for her community.
“Manal is a practising lawyer and a woman of colour who lives in the heart of Barton. She will be an authentic powerful voice for her community.
"People can see right through the broken two-party system. We will keep Dutton and his Coalition out, but the truth is that Labor has abandoned Western Sydney, and people have had enough. Jocelyn and Manal are the change these communities need to ensure their voices are heard.
"We can’t keep voting for the same two parties expecting a different result. There is a better way. If you want change, you have to vote for it."
Lines attributable to Jocelyn Brewer, Greens Candidate for Watson:
“I worry about the world our kids will inherit, and I've had enough of the major parties sitting on their hands while our future and our wallets burn.
“Big corporations must be made to pay their fair share of tax. Imagine everyone having access to dental services and the mental health support they need, instead of watching these companies dodge their responsibilities.
“I'm turning our shared frustration with major parties into positive change - becoming a real voice for the folks of Watson.”
Lines attributable to Manal Bahsa, Greens Candidate for Barton:
“I am a lawyer and a passionate advocate for civil rights. I live in the heart of the Barton electorate. While I was born in Australia, my family’s diverse heritage has deeply shaped who I am—my mother is of Greek and Ghanaian descent, and my father is Lebanese.
“To me, Australian democracy is about more than just elections. It’s about valuing the inherent dignity of every individual and ensuring everyone has the right to live free from oppression, discrimination, and fear.
“For the past five years, I have worked at a legal centre, supporting some of the most vulnerable members of our community. I’ve stood alongside them during some of the toughest times in their lives, fighting for justice and their rights.
“At the same time, I’ve witnessed the growing struggles in Barton. Rising costs of living are making it harder for people to make ends meet. Many are forced to choose between paying their mortgage or affording essential items, while large corporations benefit from massive subsidies and record-breaking profits.
“I am committed to addressing this inequality and becoming a voice in Parliament for the people of Barton. I pledge to stand with my community, work alongside them, and help drive meaningful change for a fairer future.”