UPDATE: Former Greens leader Adam Bandt has officially announced his departure from politics to become the next CEO of the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF), marking a significant shift in his career following a stunning electoral defeat. Bandt, who led the Greens for five years, expressed his commitment to climate advocacy in a statement, saying, “It is a true privilege to help lead Australia’s most respected voice for nature and climate at such a critical time.”
The announcement comes after Bandt lost his seat in the May 2023 election, where the Labor Party achieved a landslide victory, significantly impacting the Greens’ representation. The party suffered a blow, losing three lower house seats, including Bandt’s, which left them with only one representative in the House of Representatives.
In his new role, Bandt will take over from Kelly O’Shanassy in January 2024, after the ACF screened over 300 candidates for the position. ACF board chair Ros Harvey praised Bandt’s experience and vision, stating, “Mr. Bandt has the vision, the bravery, and the experience required to meet the challenging years ahead as Australia grapples with devastating climate change and accelerating nature destruction.”
Larissa Waters, the new leader of the Greens, acknowledged the party’s loss but welcomed Bandt’s new position, emphasizing his continued fight for climate and nature. “I congratulate Adam and the ACF on this fantastic appointment,” she tweeted.
The Greens faced criticism for their electoral losses, with some attributing the decline to a shift in focus away from climate issues. Despite this, party officials have vowed to maintain a strong stance on social issues while continuing to advocate for environmental concerns.
Bandt’s transition from politics to a leading environmental role underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and biodiversity loss. His leadership will be pivotal as Australia navigates these critical challenges in the coming years.
As Bandt prepares to step into his new role, all eyes will be on the ACF and its efforts to influence policy and public opinion on climate action. The urgency of these issues makes his appointment a significant development for environmental advocacy in Australia.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Bandt embarks on this new chapter in his career.
