Richard Di Natale

Richard Di Natale 2020 (cropped)

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Bob Brown and Richard Di Natale DSC 2958

Richard Di Natale is an Australian politician who served as the leader of the Australian Greens, a major green political party in Australia, from 2015 to 2020. Born on June 6, 1970, in Melbourne, Victoria, Di Natale has been a prominent figure in Australian politics, advocating for environmental sustainability, social justice, and progressive health policies.

Early Life and Education

Richard Di Natale was born to Italian immigrants in Melbourne and grew up in a working-class family. He pursued higher education at Monash University, where he completed a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree. Following his graduation, Di Natale worked as a general practitioner and public health specialist, which laid the foundation for his interest in health policy and reform.

Political Career

Di Natale's political career began with his involvement in local health and environmental advocacy groups. His commitment to public health and environmental sustainability led him to join the Australian Greens. In 2007, he was elected to the Australian Senate representing Victoria.

As a Senator, Di Natale focused on health, multiculturalism, youth, and gambling reform, among other issues. He was instrumental in pushing for reforms in the areas of drug policy, same-sex marriage, and renewable energy.

In 2015, following the resignation of Christine Milne, Di Natale was elected unopposed as the leader of the Australian Greens. Under his leadership, the party focused on climate change, economic inequality, and the treatment of refugees and asylum seekers. Di Natale advocated for a more pragmatic and less ideologically driven approach to politics, aiming to broaden the party's appeal.

During his tenure, the Greens achieved significant electoral successes, including an increase in their share of the vote in the 2016 federal election and the election of a record number of Greens to the Australian Parliament.

Post-Leadership Career

Richard Di Natale resigned as leader of the Australian Greens in February 2020, citing the desire to spend more time with his family. He was succeeded by Adam Bandt. Following his resignation as leader, Di Natale continued to serve as a Senator, focusing on his passion for health and environmental issues until his departure from the Senate.

Legacy

Di Natale's leadership of the Australian Greens is marked by his efforts to position the party as a significant force in Australian politics, capable of influencing national policy on climate change, health, and social justice. His pragmatic approach to leadership and emphasis on broadening the party's appeal have been credited with helping to stabilize the Greens and grow their electoral support.

Personal Life

Richard Di Natale lives on a working farm in the Otway Ranges of Victoria with his wife and two sons. He is known for his interest in sustainable farming and environmental conservation.