Council
12 March, 2025
Greens announce federal candidate
THE Greens have announced Dr Kate Gazzard will be the party’s candidate for the seat of Wannon as this year’s Federal Election looms.
The party announced the decision last week with an optimistic view their candidate would bring fresh energy to build a hopeful and sustainable future.
Dr Gazzard is a paediatric emergency doctor, previous Greens councillor, mum to two young boys and a climate activist.
She grew up on the Golden Plains near Ballarat and has called the Surf Coast her home for the past six years.
Dr Gazzard is also a keen runner, swimmer and surfer who loves the coastline, the forests and the hinterland of western Victoria.
She is passionate about protecting the biodiversity, land and waters of the region.
As part of the announcement, Dr Gazzard unveiled her election priorities which were headlined by a fight for environmental protection, climate action, social justice, affordable living, access to health care, dental care and mental health support.
In Wannon, her priorities include:
Vigilant environmental protection;
Stopping all new fossil fuel projects, particularly offshore drilling and seismic blasting;
Future proofing our region against the effects of climate change, coastal erosion and extreme weather events;
Supporting genuinely affordable housing;
Addressing the cost of living for farmers and families
A much greater focus on safe, active transport; and
Healthy communities with equitable access to health care, dental care and mental health support.
Dr Gazzard said, if elected, she would be a fierce advocate for the environment.
“As the MP for Wannon I will fight for climate action and social justice,” she said.
“It is never too late to improve the health of people and the planet.
“Now, more than ever, we need people power to stand up to the gas companies, polluters and the government, who are letting giant corporations explore for gas in our oceans.
“It is unacceptable, knowing what we know, that we would allow things like seismic blasting and gas exploration to happen – this needs to stop now.”
Dr Gazzard said the Greens having a presence in government would see the major parties held to account and provide a platform for progressive views to be heard.
“We need to have Greens representation in all levels of government, with a seat at the table and a voice in the chamber to keep challenging outdated and conservative views,” she said.
“We need to hold the old parties to account and challenge all levels of government on issues that affect not only our local precinct, but the whole planet.
“As citizens of the world, we have a duty of care to the current generation, and future generations, whether it be reducing and mitigating the effects of climate change, speaking out against violence and war, or pushing for social justice, gender and racial equity.”
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