Greens announce Lara candidate

Dr Courtney Gardner will ran as the Greens candidate for Lara. (supplied)

The Greens have announced Dr Courtney Gardner as its candidate for the Lower House Seat of Lara in the upcoming state election.

Dr Gardner works as a GP in Geelong’s northern suburbs and said she was keen to do more to improve the lives of local residents.

“In my role I hear directly from community members about the serious challenges they are facing,” Dr Gardner said.

“Too many of these issues are not being addressed sufficiently by the government.

“We urgently need to address the rising cost of living, lack of sufficient local public transport, improve housing affordability, and take immediate action to stop the impact of the climate crisis.

“I will stand strongly against the proposed floating gas terminals in Corio Bay and Port Phillip Bay, as they have the potential for enormous impact on residents and our precious coastal waters.”

Dr Gardner said seeing people struggle to afford housing and to access basic services such as healthcare and public transportation prompted her to run as a Greens candidate.

Dr Gardner attended Deakin Medical School and completed her initial medical training at Barwon Health.

Prior to becoming a doctor she studied public health and worked in international development.