The Victorian Greens are thrilled to announce that Pasefika woman, social justice campaigner and community leader Anasina Gray-Barberio will be the new member for Northern Metropolitan, making history by becoming the first MP in the Victorian Parliament from a Pacific Island background.
Anasina Gray-Barberio joins the Victorian Parliament committed to standing up for communities on the frontline of the climate crisis, bringing her lived experience and unique perspective as a Pasefika woman.
Anasina was born in Samoa and has witnessed firsthand the threats of rising sea levels and displacement due to climate change. As an advocate and community leader Anasina has tirelessly campaigned for diverse communities in the northern suburbs who have been hit particularly hard by the rising cost of living and the housing crisis.
Anasina Gray-Barberio was elected by Greens members from the Northern Metropolitan area in a preselection, with the result confirmed this morning.
Anasina will take her seat in October, replacing the outgoing MLC for Northern Metropolitan and former Leader of the Greens, Samantha Ratnam who announced her resignation from the Victorian Parliament earlier this year to contest the Federal seat of Wills at the upcoming election.
As stated by Northern Metropolitan MLC-elect , Anasina Gray-Barberio:
"As a Pasefika woman, I have a deep understanding of the threats posed by climate change, coming from a community that is on the frontline of the climate crisis.
"We're in a critical decade for the climate, and people with lived experience and unique perspectives like mine deserve a seat at the table.
"I've continued to be a passionate advocate for diverse communities in the northern suburbs who are being hit particularly hard by the cost of living and climate crises.
"I'll be fighting for our communities who deserve secure and affordable housing, to be able to put food on the table, and to live in a safe and healthy climate."
As stated by Leader of the Victorian Greens, Ellen Sandell:
"The Greens are going from strength to strength, and I'm so proud our members have selected an MP who comes from a diverse background, who will make history as the first Pasefika MP in the Victorian Parliament.
"Anasina brings incredible experience as a strong advocate for the diverse communities of the northern suburbs where she lives.
"We're thrilled to be welcoming Anasina to the team. There was an incredible field of candidates and we're so lucky to have had so many amazing people put their hand up to represent Northern Metro, which is such an indication of the strength of our movement."
