In an era marked by distrust in institutions and disillusionment with political leaders, the quest for integrity in politics has become a rallying cry for citizens worldwide. Integrity, defined as the alignment of actions with professed values, a commitment to transparency, and a dedication to the public good, stands as the cornerstone of a functioning democracy. Yet, as we navigate the complexities of modern governance, it becomes increasingly clear that many of our political representatives fall short of this ideal. My recent interactions with the Greens, a party often heralded as a progressive alternative, have led me to a sobering realisation: they are not the answer to our yearning for principled leadership. As we approach the upcoming federal election in Australia, I argue that independent candidates, rather than the Greens, offer a more promising path toward restoring integrity to our political landscape.
The Erosion of Trust and the Need for Change
The political landscape in Australia, like many democratic nations, has long been dominated by a duopoly of major parties – Labor and the Coalition. While these parties have shaped the nation’s history, their entrenched power has often bred complacency, self-interest, and a disconnect from the electorate. Scandals, broken promises, and a focus on partisan gain over public welfare have eroded trust in these institutions, leaving citizens hungry for alternatives. The Greens have positioned themselves as a counterweight to this duopoly, championing environmental sustainability, social justice, and accountability. Their rhetoric resonates with those who seek a departure from business-as-usual politics, promising a government that prioritizes people and planet over profit.
Yet, rhetoric alone does not suffice. Integrity demands action – responsiveness to constituents, transparency in decision-making, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. As we stand on the cusp of a federal election, the stakes are high. Australians deserve leaders who embody these principles, not merely those who profess them. My personal experience with the Greens has cast doubt on their ability to deliver, prompting a broader reflection on where true integrity might be found.
A Personal Encounter with Greens Hypocrisy
On March 24, 2024, I wrote to Mr. Shane Rattenbury, the Greens Attorney General for the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), to raise serious concerns about the conduct of the ACT Solicitor General, Mr. Peter Garrison. As the second most senior law officer in the territory, Garrison’s role is pivotal in upholding the rule of law and safeguarding public trust in our legal system. My letter outlined specific issues that, in my view, demanded urgent attention- issues that, if left unaddressed, could undermine the credibility of the ACT government and its commitment to justice.
The Attorney General’s position is not a ceremonial one. It carries the weighty responsibility of ensuring that the legal system operates with fairness and integrity, serving as a bulwark against corruption and mismanagement. When a member of the public raises credible concerns about a senior official, the expectation is clear: a prompt, transparent response that acknowledges the issue and outlines a path forward. Yet, as of April 4, 2025, more than a year after my initial outreach, Mr. Rattenbury has failed to reply – not only to my first letter but also to a follow-up I sent seeking clarity and accountability.
This silence is not a minor oversight; it is a profound breach of the public trust. Mr. Rattenbury, as a senior Greens member and a representative in the ACT Legislative Assembly, holds a position of influence within his party and the government. His refusal to engage with a member of the public’s concerns – particularly on a matter as consequential as the conduct of the Solicitor General – raises troubling questions about his commitment to the values the Greens claim to uphold. Transparency, accountability, and responsiveness are not optional extras; they are the bedrock of democratic governance. When a leader fails to embody these principles, it undermines not only their personal credibility but also the reputation of their party.
The Disconnect Between Rhetoric and Reality
The Greens have built their brand on a promise of principled politics. Their platform emphasises environmental stewardship, social equity, and a rejection of the cynicism that pervades mainstream parties. For many, including myself at one time, this vision offered hope, a chance to break free from the stagnation of the political status quo. Yet, my experience with Mr. Rattenbury suggests a troubling disconnect between the party’s lofty rhetoric and its practical execution. If a senior Greens figure cannot muster the courtesy or courage to address a member of the public’s concerns, what does this say about the party’s broader commitment to integrity?
This is not an isolated incident, but a symptom of a deeper malaise. Across their tenure in various jurisdictions, the Greens have faced criticism for prioritising ideology over pragmatism, for aligning with major parties when it suits their interests, and for failing to hold themselves to the same standards they demand of others. In the ACT, their coalition with Labor has delivered some policy wins, but it has also diluted their independence, tying them to decisions that contradict their stated values. My encounter with Mr. Rattenbury exemplifies this pattern: a refusal to engage when engagement might expose flaws or require difficult action. The 2020 ACT Election delivered the ACT Greens 6 seats in an assembly with only 25 seats, forcing ACT Labor into a coalition with the Greens. The whiff of power resulted in the Greens trading integrity for political clout.
This hypocrisy is particularly galling given the Greens’ self-appointed role as moral arbiters. They critique the major parties for their opacity and unresponsiveness, yet when faced with a test of their own accountability, they falter. Integrity is not a selective virtue—it must be consistent, even when inconvenient. The Greens’ failure to meet this standard has left me disillusioned, prompting a re-evaluation of where we might find leaders who truly prioritise the public good.
The Case for Independent Candidates
As we approach the federal election, the limitations of party politics – whether from the duopoly or the Greens – underscore the need for a different approach. Independent candidates offer a compelling alternative. Unburdened by party lines or institutional loyalties, independents are free to focus on the needs of their constituents rather than the demands of a political machine. They bring a diversity of perspectives, often rooted in local concerns and a willingness to engage directly with the people they serve.
The rise of independents in recent years – figures like Helen Haines, Zali Steggall, Andrew Wilki – demonstrate their potential to disrupt the status quo. These leaders have championed issues like climate action, anti-corruption measures, and community representation, often with greater authenticity than their party-affiliated counterparts. Their independence allows them to hold governments to account without the baggage of partisan agendas, fostering a politics of principle over expediency.
In contrast to the Greens, independents are not bound by a collective narrative that may mask individual failings. If an independent fails to respond to constituents or uphold their promises, they lack the shield of a party to deflect criticism. This vulnerability can be a strength, compelling them to maintain a higher standard of integrity. For voters disillusioned by the Greens’ shortcomings, independents offer a chance to support candidates who are accountable first and foremost to the people, not to a platform or coalition.
A Call to Action: Reclaiming Integrity in Politics
The quest for integrity in politics is not a passive endeavour, it requires active participation from citizens willing to demand more. As we prepare to vote, we must look beyond the familiar banners of established parties and critically assess the character and actions of those seeking our trust. The Greens, for all their progressive ideals, have shown through my experience and broader patterns that they are not immune to the pitfalls of political complacency. Their silence in the face of legitimate concerns betrays a gap between their words and deeds, casting doubt on their reliability as stewards of integrity.
Instead, I urge my fellow Australians to consider independent candidates who demonstrate a genuine commitment to transparency, responsiveness, and the public good. These individuals, free from the constraints of party dogma, can help us rebuild a political system that reflects our values and meets our needs. The upcoming federal election is not just a routine exercise – it is an opportunity to reshape our democracy, to elevate leaders who prioritise integrity over ambition.
The time for change is now. Reject the status quo, whether it comes in the form of the old guard or the unfulfilled promises of the Greens. Seek out those who listen, who act, and who stand firm in their principles. Together, we can forge a political landscape where integrity is not an aspiration but a reality – a democracy that serves its citizens with the honesty and accountability we deserve. The Greens are not the answer, but the solution lies within our grasp if we dare to choose it.