Greens Victoria Campaign Launches Bold Bid to Take Country Back 2026

The Greens Victoria campaign has officially launched with a bold bid to "take our country back," as newly elected federal leader David Shoebridge rallied supporters in Melbourne's inner north. The event, held at an inclusive church in Fitzroy North, featured a vegetarian buffet, local beers, and raffle prizes including free dental care and public transport tickets, underscoring the party's focus on community-driven politics.

Greens Victoria Campaign Kicks Off with Rallying Cry

In a speech delivered from the altar of the Fitzroy North community church, Senator David Shoebridge urged Victorians to lead a national movement. "In 51 days, the whole country will be watching Victoria. I can already tell you are going to set the momentum," he declared. "You are going to get the ball rolling in what is going to be an extremely exciting, extraordinary moment for the Greens, but more fundamentally, for this country, because we're going to take our country back, and it starts right here in Victoria."

The event marked a significant moment for the Greens, with Shoebridge's late addition adding star power to the launch. Despite internal rivalries, the party presented a united front, ready to challenge the major parties in the upcoming state election.

Key Policy Announcements

Max Chandler-Mather, the federal MP for Griffith, pre-empted the launch by unveiling a bold policy through the party's thinktank on Tuesday. The plan aims to force the sale of 200 Coles and Woolworths supermarkets and replace them with government-owned grocery stores. This move is designed to address cost-of-living pressures and break up the supermarket duopoly that the Greens argue is driving up prices for everyday Australians.

Other policies highlighted at the launch include:

• Free dental care: Raffle prizes included a free dental check-up, clean, and X-rays, symbolizing the party's push for universal dental coverage.
• Free public transport: A $100 pre-paid Myki ticket was raffled, reflecting the Greens' commitment to affordable and sustainable transport.
• Community-focused events: The vegetarian buffet and local beers showcased the party's emphasis on inclusivity and local businesses.

Comparing Greens' Policies to Major Parties

The Greens' platform stands in stark contrast to the major parties' approaches. Below is a comparison of key policy areas:

Implications for the Upcoming Election

With 51 days until the Victorian election, the Greens are positioning themselves as the progressive alternative. Their campaign, branded as a movement to "take our country back," aims to resonate with voters frustrated by rising costs and climate inaction. The launch event's atmosphere—described as a "rousing political sermon"—suggests a grassroots energy that could translate into electoral gains.

However, challenges remain. The Greens will need to convert enthusiasm into votes across a broader electorate, not just in inner-city strongholds. The supermarket divestiture policy, while popular among some, faces fierce opposition from business groups and may be legally complex to implement.

FAQ

As the campaign unfolds, all eyes will be on Victoria to see if the Greens can indeed "take our country back" and set a new political trajectory for Australia.