Larissa Waters Steps Down as Greens Leader Due to Health Concerns

Australian Greens leader Larissa Waters has announced she is stepping down from the party’s leadership after 16 months in the role, citing health reasons and a worsening kidney condition.

The Greens revealed that Waters has been managing an existing kidney disease, which has deteriorated in recent months. The 49-year-old Queensland senator informed colleagues of her decision during a virtual party meeting and will now take medical leave while focusing on her recovery.

In a statement, Waters expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the party.

“It has been a tremendous honour to be leader of the Greens, fighting for people and the planet,” she said.

She added that her health now requires her to work at a slower pace and prioritize recovery, although she intends to return to public duties as soon as she is able.

Waters became leader of the Greens in May 2025, succeeding Adam Bandt after he lost his lower house seat in the federal election. She won the leadership contest against deputy leader Mehreen Faruqi and Senate manager of business Sarah Hanson-Young.

During her tenure, Waters oversaw several key policy negotiations and legislative campaigns. One of the most significant achievements cited by the party was the agreement reached with the Labor government in 2025 to strengthen Australia’s environmental laws. The Greens secured amendments including tighter controls on land clearing and measures aimed at preventing the fast-tracking of coal and gas projects under national interest exemptions.

The party also played a notable role in parliamentary negotiations on firearms legislation and hate speech reforms, advocating for separate treatment of gun safety measures following the Bondi Beach terror attack. More recently, the Greens used their balance of power in the Senate to delay proposed reforms to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and secured an extended parliamentary inquiry into the planned changes.

Waters, who was first elected to the Senate in 2010, is one of the Greens’ longest-serving federal representatives and has been a prominent voice on environmental protection, gender equality, and social justice issues.

The Greens are expected to hold a partyroom meeting in the coming days to determine leadership arrangements. Party officials have indicated a decision on her successor is likely to be made quickly to ensure continuity ahead of upcoming parliamentary business.

Waters’ departure marks a significant leadership transition for the Greens and comes at a time when the party continues to play an influential role in the Senate.