Federal election 2022: Greens encourage supporters to preference Kate Chaney in Curtin

The Greens are encouraging its supporters to preference Climate 200-backed independent Kate Chaney in the race for the blue-ribbon seat of Curtin in the upcoming Federal election.

In a statement the Greens said they were recommending preferences based on party values and “broadly share” Ms Chaney’s stated priorities of greater action on climate change and improved integrity in politics.

The party said like Ms Chaney they shared the views that Curtin voters are “increasingly frustrated with the two-party system”.

“The next election is closer than most people think. This election we can return the Greens to the balance of power. We will recommend to voters that they vote 1 Greens, then direct their preferences (which they control) to independent Kate Chaney to send a clear message to the major parties that climate action is a priority for voters in Curtin and across WA,” Greens candidate for Curtin Cameron Pigeon said in a statement.

The Greens said it would be making further announcements on preferences including on other climate independents in coming weeks.

Ms Chaney has worked as a lawyer and a strategy consultant and is the granddaughter of Menzies government Minister Fred Chaney. Her uncle is former Frazer government minister Fred Chaney Jr.

She is running as a “teal” independent backed by the Climate200 group formed by climate change activist and businessman Simon Holmes a Court- son of Australia’s first billionaire Robert Holmes a Court.

Climate200 are backing 22 candidates, mostly in inner city Liberal-held seats where voters are becoming increasingly concerned about climate change.

Ms Chaney has not said which major party would have her support in the event there was a hung parliament and she won the seat, but said a Federal anti-corruption commission and stronger action on climate change would headline her demands.

Curtin is currently held by former Notre Dame Vice Chancellor Celia Hammond on a margin of 13.9 per cent.

Labor are also expected to preference Ms Chaney above the Liberals.