Greens appoint environmental lawyer to fill Senate vacancy

The Tasmanian environmental lawyer will step into federal politics to replace retiring Senator Peter Whish-Wilson when he departs Parliament later this year, following his announcement in October that he would leave politics.

Bleyer brings more than 20 years of experience in environmental law, having previously served as president of Lawyers for Forests, chair of Environment Tasmania, and a spokesperson for The Australia Institute on native forest issues.

In a statement, the Greens described how she has used the law as “a shield for the environment”, successfully challenging major corporate and industrial developments seen as threats to Tasmania’s ecosystems.

Speaking about this new role, Bleyer shared she was honoured to be chosen by party members and looked forward to representing Tasmania in the Senate, with a focus on ending native forest logging and improving housing security.

“It is my absolute privilege to be selected to represent Tasmania in the Senate for the Greens,” Bleyer stated.

“I thank the members for their confidence in me. I look forward to achieving outcomes for Tasmanians in the Senate, including ending native forest logging and providing safe and secure housing to those struggling without it.

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“I congratulate my fellow candidates and know they will continue to do great things. I look forward to the next few months preparing to assume Senator Whish-Wilson's position, whose shoes it will be an honour to fill.”

Current Senator Whish-Wilson expressed how Bleyer’s selection reflects decades of shared environmental campaigning and legal advocacy, describing her appointment as “well deserved” and a fitting recognition of her long-standing commitment to the cause.

“I have known Vanessa for nearly 20 years, as a friend, lawyer, staunch activist and advocate for nature and communities. I couldn't be more thrilled that the Tasmanian Greens membership has chosen her to fill my casual vacancy in the Senate,” Whish-Wilson noted.

“I first met Vanessa in 2007 when we were both campaigning against the Tamar Valley Pulp Mill, and have had the privilege of her running second on my Senate ticket in 2002.

“Few have worked harder for their community and to protect nature than Vanessa, her preselection is so very deserving.”

Whish-Wilson added: “Vanessa has courage, integrity, a mighty work ethic, a big heart and a passion that will keep the torch burning along a path well trodden by Bob Brown and Christine Milne. Alongside Nick McKim fighting in the Senate, Vanessa will be a champion for Tasmania and a better future for all of us.”