There are two new Greens candidates for the Corangamite and Corio federal seats, with both passionate about climate action within their communities.
Mitch Pope will run against Libby Coker for the Corangamite seat, while Emilie Flynn will go up against Richard Marles as the Member of Corio.
Mr Pope grew up on the Bellarine Peninsula and is an environmental campaigner and eco-tour guide. He said a lack of federal climate action motivated him to take action.
“The impacts of gas and oil spills, and the burning of fossil fuels is devastating our climate and marine environment, and it must end,” he said.
“The major parties are worried about upsetting fossil fuel corporations and wealthy property investors instead of enacting change to support those doing it tough and acting on the climate crisis.
“I am dedicated to tackling the climate crisis and creating a fairer future for all, by fighting to end new coal and gas, expanding public renewables and capping rent investing in essential services and taxing big corporations.”
Ms Flynn, Geelong Sustainability’s operations and project coordinator, said she wanted to highlight some of the community’s biggest issues.
“No one in a country as wealthy as Australia should have to skip meals or avoid medical care because they can’t afford it,” she said.
“Housing is a human right, not a commodity for profit, and it’s time our policies reflect that. Our foreign policy should always center on human dignity, equality, and the pursuit of lasting peace.
“We need immediate and meaningful action to protect communities like Geelong from the worsening impacts of climate change; from extreme weather events to rising sea levels.”
