The Australian Greens Party Room has changed portfolio responsibilities as we enter this new term of parliament.

“Thanks to the outstanding advocacy of our parliamentary team, the Australian Greens have been leading the debate on the major environmental, economic and social challenges facing our country,” said Senator Richard Di Natale, Australian Greens Leader.

All Australian Greens parliamentary leadership positions were today spilled and reaffirmed, following routine procedures after an election.

Senator Richard Di Natale continues as Leader of the Australian Greens. Senators Larissa Waters Scott Ludlam continue as the Australian Greens Co-Deputy Leaders. Senator Rachel Siewert remains the party's Whip and Adam Bandt MP has taken on the role of Party Room Chair. All positions were uncontested and supported by Party Room consensus.

Australian Greens Senator Scott Ludlam and Senator Rachel Siewert have been re-elected to the Senate.

Australian Greens Leader Richard Di Natale has laughed at Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull's assertion that that a re-elected Coalition would deliver stable government.

"Malcolm Turnbull rolled a first-term prime minister, presides over a divided party room with Tony Abbott waiting in the wings, and called a double dissolution in a desperate bid to earn a mandate from his own party," Senator Di Natale said.

The Australian Greens have formally launched their 2016 campaign with the entire federal Greens party room, former party leaders Bob Brown and Christine Milne, and hundreds of supporters in Melbourne.

"I am so proud to lead this party that has the courage and vision to stand up for what matters," said Greens Leader Richard Di Natale.

"Our 2016 federal election campaign is focused on protecting the climate that sustains our health, our environment and our economy, tackling inequality and charting a better way to deal with today's record levels of global displacement.

This edition of Simms in the Senate covers Senator Robert Simms' recent work on promoting green jobs for SA, protecting the Great Australian Bight, standing with the community against a nuclear waste dump in regional SA, phasing out live animal export, and the latest campaign news on marriage equality, Safe Schools, tertiary education, and more.

NSW Senator Lee Rhiannon has wished her dear friend and Greens candidate for Cowper Carol Vernon a speedy recovery to good health.

"It is with concern and sadness that we announce that our Greens candidate for Cowper Carol Vernon will have surgery on Tuesday 21 June," said Senator Rhiannon.

"I am really pleased that Carol will remain as the Greens candidate for Cowper in this election as her prognosis is positive.

"Carol's hard work, depth of understanding of Greens policies and organising abilities have been real assets to grassroots democracy.

Greens Leader Richard Di Natale is marking the Queen's Birthday by setting out a 5-step path to allowing Australians to serve as our own heads of state.

"We are a mature, independent, confident nation and it's time to stand on our own two feet " Senator Di Natale said.

"It's on days like today that many Australians remember the failed republic referendum of 1999. The Greens have a clear plan to ensure history doesn't repeat itself.

I am devastated to hear of the horrific news of another violent and senseless shooting in the United States.

Our hearts are with the people of Florida and the LGBTI community.

I extend my deepest condolences for the families and loved ones of those tragically killed or injured.

Violence and hate have no place in our communities and now more than ever we must stand together against these hateful acts.

Richard Di Natale
Leader of the Australian Greens