History

4Change used to be known as the Climate Change Coalition, which was founded by Patrice Newell and John Harvey in 2006.

With the passage of time it became clear to members that sustainability issues, including climate change, were not being adequately addressed primarily because the community’s views were being subordinated to those of powerful lobby groups.

The majority of the community wants action on climate change along with reassurance that their jobs and their families will remain protected. Both major parties have not acted with the community’s best interests in mind.

To improve long term outcomes for the community the party decided changes had to be made to the way politics gets done in Australia.

4Change was born out of a deep awareness of the need to create a new political process that includes true consultation with the community; ongoing communication between Members of Parliament and their electorate; a conscience vote for MPs on all issues; and a deep respect for the knowledge and expertise that exists within the community, which must be used more effectively in decision making.