Adam Bandt’s departure from the leadership of the Australian Greens has prompted a wave of tributes from across the party, with figures lauding his impact on the political landscape and his strategic success in increasing lower house representation. His resignation also triggered speculation about who might succeed him, although Bandt declined to name a preferred candidate, instead emphasising the capability of all his parliamentary colleagues. On ABC Melbourne radio, he made clear he would not be offering commentary from the sidelines.
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Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young was among the most vocal in her praise, describing Bandt as a “superb leader” whose legacy includes challenging the dominance of the two major parties. She credited him with driving a transformation in national politics and said his commitment to progressive values had been unwavering. Fellow Greens MP David Shoebridge echoed these sentiments, calling Bandt “a comrade” and “an incredible human being”.
Former Greens leaders Bob Brown and Christine Milne also offered their support, with Brown commending Bandt’s integrity and Milne highlighting the movement he built in Melbourne. Former leader Richard Di Natale suggested that, although the party had lost a few seats, this was due to marginal shifts in voter patterns rather than a broader decline in support. He expressed confidence that the Greens could regain those seats, especially given the strong foundation of first-time voters.
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Di Natale noted that many Australians had now voted Green at least once, increasing the likelihood they would do so again in future. He also criticised the major parties, arguing that Labor’s track record of disappointing voters could work in the Greens’ favour. As the party now turns to leadership renewal, the praise for Bandt’s leadership underscores a sense of unity and forward momentum despite recent electoral setbacks.
