Queensland Greens to Pay Co-Founder's Legal Costs

The Queensland Greens have agreed to cover the legal costs incurred by co-founder Drew Hutton following his successful effort to have his party membership reinstated. Hutton, who helped establish the Greens in 1991, was expelled from the party last year.

Membership Reinstated After Legal Dispute

On Monday, Hutton confirmed that his legal dispute with the Greens had been settled, with the party agreeing to pay his costs. Consequently, Hutton's legal representatives filed a notice of discontinuance to end the proceedings in the Supreme Court. Hutton stated that his case was related to free speech and expressed gratitude for his legal team's assistance.

Background to Expulsion

His expulsion was partially attributed to his refusal to remove comments from his Facebook page that the party deemed transphobic. At the time, Hutton criticized the party's focus on identity politics.

Reinstatement Due to Procedural Flaws

Hutton's membership was reinstated in November after the Greens accepted legal advice indicating he had been denied natural justice during the disciplinary process.

The Greens clarified that withdrawing the decision to terminate Hutton's membership was due to process issues, not a change in the party's stance on trans rights.

Greens Stand Firm on Trans Rights and Party Rules

A Greens spokesperson defended the party's initial action against Hutton, while acknowledging procedural shortcomings. The spokesperson reiterated that trans rights are human rights and that party rules do not extend free speech to include the right to cause harm to others. All party members, including Hutton, are expected to adhere to the Greens' charter, constitution, bylaws, and code of ethics.