Greens MP Adam Bandt has said Opposition leader Tony Abbott is showing a "mean and nasty streak" in refusing Craig Thomson a parliamentary pair to attend the birth of his child.‬‪

"Mr Abbott is showing he has a real mean and nasty streak" Mr Bandt said today.‬‪‬‪

"Whatever questions Craig Thomson may have to answer, and however serious the votes are in the next few weeks, there must always be room for compassion and fairness."

"This is just punishing the mother and baby so Mr Abbott can score political points."‬‪‪‬‬‪

Greens MP Adam Bandt has hailed Melbourne's securing of the title of the world's most liveable city, saying it deserves the top spot.

But Mr Bandt cautioned that big investments in public transport, other infrastructure and greening the city were needed if Melbourne was going to stay in front.

Melbourne claimed the title of the world's most liveable city in the Economist Intelligence Unit's latest survey, beating Vancouver.

"Melbourne deserves top spot", Mr Bandt said.

Dear Friend,

We are nearing political crunch time for the climate.

This weekend I have been meeting with members ot the Multi-Party Climate Change Committee for intensive talks on the price on pollution. These negotiations will shape Australia's future for years to come. While I am working hard in Canberra for the best possible outcome, we need the community to take a stand this weekend for a cleaner future.

Greens MP Adam Bandt has backed a call from Labor MP Michael Danby to
scrap the Melbourne Grand Prix.

Mr Bandt said the car race cost the taxpayer too much and had a negative impact on his electorate.

"Time is up for the Grand Prix", Mr Bandt said.

"It is does little for the local economy and its growing cost to taxpayer, now at 15 million dollars a year, is too much."

"While the Formula One race happens next door in Albert Park it still has a big impact on residents in my electorate of Melbourne."

The tragic loss of life in the Queensland floods, as well as the shocking images of besieged cities, evacuated suburbs, homes and cars swept away and farms ruined, leaves us luckier Australians asking how we can help.

Please join with us in giving to the Premier’s Disaster Relief Appeal.

From http://www.qld.gov.au/floods/donate.html