Drew Hutton, a founding member of the Australian Greens, faces expulsion from the party he helped create. On July 20, 2023, the 78-year-old will present his appeal to the Queensland Greens’ state council, arguing that his removal constitutes a violation of free speech. Hutton’s case has drawn support from notable figures, including former national leader Bob Brown and Christine Milne, who have advocated for the restoration of his membership.
The controversy began on June 21, 2022, shortly after the Greens celebrated significant electoral gains in Queensland. Hutton, a retiree residing on the Sunshine Coast, had actively participated in party activities long after stepping back from formal roles. He was awarded life membership and was regarded as a pivotal figure in the party’s history.
However, tensions within the party escalated when Hutton publicly criticized actions taken against members who challenged the party’s stance on gender identity issues. His comments, made via social media, were deemed transphobic by the party’s Constitution and Arbitration Committee (CAC). Hutton claims to have been targeted in a broader campaign against dissenting views within the Greens.
Gemmia Burden, the convenor of the Queensland Greens, stated that while the details of complaints are confidential, the party’s code of conduct applies equally to all members. She emphasized that discussions should be respectful and noted that commentary targeting individuals based on gender identity is unacceptable. “The Queensland Greens believe that trans rights are non-negotiable,” Burden affirmed.
Hutton’s expulsion marks a significant moment in the party’s history. He questions whether the Greens will remain true to their founding values or become increasingly authoritarian. In his words, “The important thing is the Greens… Are they going to be a dogmatic, authoritarian party that exerts all this top-down control over members?”
The situation highlights a growing divide within the party regarding gender identity and free speech. Hutton had previously expressed his support for trans rights while concurrently advocating for women’s safety. He described his views as “deeply concerned about party officials overturning the results of democratic elections.”
The conflict escalated following the dismissal of another member, Linda Gale, who was removed for co-authoring a paper perceived as transphobic. Hutton’s vocal opposition to these actions led to his own membership being suspended until he complied with CAC directives, which included deleting certain social media posts and comments.
Despite the suspension, Hutton continued to express his views online, resulting in a formal termination of his membership on June 24, 2023. He claims that over 40 individuals have faced similar treatment within the party, primarily women expressing second-wave feminist perspectives.
Cheryl Hercus, a former Greens candidate, echoed Hutton’s sentiments, noting that many women have left the party in frustration over its current direction. She shared her experience of being accused of holding transphobic views, which ultimately led her to let her membership lapse.
The ongoing debate within the Greens raises questions about the party’s future direction and adherence to its foundational principles. As Hutton prepares to plead his case, the outcome could reshape the internal dynamics of the party and its commitment to diversity of thought.
While some members support Hutton’s right to express his views, others, like Ben Pennings, a prominent environmental activist, criticize him for shifting focus away from environmental issues. Pennings described it as “heartbreaking” that Hutton has become absorbed in a singular issue.
Hutton’s appeal will be closely watched, as it represents more than just his personal membership status; it reflects a broader struggle within the Australian Greens over the balance between free speech and inclusivity. As the party navigates these complex issues, the decisions made in the coming weeks could have lasting implications for its identity and mission.
