greens launch national election campaign

The Australian Greens election campaign was officially launched by Leader Senator Bob Brown today in Canberra.

Senator Brown said the Australian Greens, unlike Labor and the Coalition, offered voters stability, leadership and vision.

"The Greens record in the Senate demonstrates our ability to negotiate and deliver outcomes for the community when the Coalition has said no," said Senator Brown.

"We will continue to pursue innovative policies like High Speed Rail, an idea which the majority of Australians support," said Senator Brown.

A new Galaxy Research poll of 1009 people released today found that 74% of Australians are in favour of a High Speed Rail link between Australian capital cities.

"Today I am also announcing two new polices that show the Greens are the party that thinks about the future, cares about people and will stand up for the environment.

"The Greens call for a new National Marine Reserves Plan to protect 30% of our marine reserve areas from all extractive uses such as oil and gas exploration, whereas today less than 5% is protected.

"The Greens will also move to amend the Fair Work Act to extend the right to request flexible working arrangements for all carers.

"This entitlement is currently limited to parents of preschool age children and carers of children with disabilities. In extending to all carers, this right will include, for example parents caring for adult children with disabilities or people caring for elderly parents.

"This election the Greens are working hard for a historic breakthrough in the House of Representatives, but we are also the choice for voters who want to prevent an Abbott-controlled Senate."