The ACT Greens have ruled out a formal power-sharing arrangement with the Canberra Liberals, following a party meeting where members expressed strong opposition to the idea. Greens leader Shane Rattenbury confirmed on ABC Radio Canberra that the majority of members were against an alliance, citing concerns over shared values and cultural issues.
Rattenbury said the meeting involved a robust discussion, but there was no support for more formal arrangements with the Liberals at this time. Members raised worries about 'identity politics' and harmful commentary from the federal Liberal Party regarding LGBTIQA+ and Muslim communities.
Despite the decision, former federal Greens leader Bob Brown supported the discussions as part of the democratic process. He argued that talking with both major parties is a responsibility when no party holds a majority, and criticized backlash from the far right.
Brown noted that the talks had already had a positive impact, such as the announcement of new aquatic facilities for Canberra, which he said showed Labor needed to be kept on its toes. Canberra Liberals leader Mark Parton confirmed talks had occurred but declined to specify details, stating the opposition's focus is on holding the government accountable and offering a better alternative.
