Greens in turmoil as Ukraine row and allegations hit Shoebridge's third week
David Shoebridge's first three weeks as Greens leader brought Ukraine policy splits, internal divisions and a senator's inquiry.
Three weeks into his job, Greens leader David Shoebridge is battling one crisis after another. Shoebridge sparked a public row over Ukraine policy by saying the party does not support military aid to Ukraine.
About 70 per cent of Australians back it. Party colleague Sarah Hanson-Young lost the leadership race to Shoebridge.
She publicly disagreed with him. She said Australians should support military aid if that is what Ukraine needs to defend itself.
WA senator Jordon Steele-John took leave as an inquiry began. It looks into claims about his comments toward women.
Shoebridge has not committed to publishing the inquiry findings. Political scientist Zareh Ghazarian called it a catastrophic start for a party under new leadership that needs to stand out.
- End of September
- Election timing
- 70 per cent
- Australians backing Ukraine aid
- WA senator
- Steele-John role
- Zareh Ghazarian, Monash University
- Analyst
Why it mattersThe Greens are losing ground to One Nation and need momentum. These early stumbles damage Shoebridge's credibility as the party fights to hold seats in November's Victorian state election.
AustraliaIf the Greens continue to lose seats and authority at state and federal level, voters unhappy with Labor or the Coalition have fewer options, potentially shifting the balance of Australian politics.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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