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In a dramatic turn of events that has sent ripples through Australia’s political landscape, Western Australian Senator Dorinda Cox has defected from the Greens to the Labor Party, a move announced on June 2, 2025, in Perth alongside Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. This unexpected switch not only boosts Labor’s Senate representation to 29 seats but also raises questions about the future influence of the Greens under their new leader, Larissa Waters.

The Announcement and Its Context

Cox, who has served as a Greens Senator since 2021 after replacing Rachel Siewert, revealed her decision after what she described as a “deeply considered” period of reflection following the recent federal election. The announcement came during a press conference in Perth, where she stood beside Albanese, signaling a new chapter in her political career. The defection was a surprise to many, as Cox had been a prominent figure within the Greens, often advocating for progressive policies on climate change, Indigenous rights, and social justice.

Cox informed Greens leader Larissa Waters of her decision just 90 minutes before going public, a move that has sparked criticism from some within her former party. Waters, who recently took over leadership of the Greens, now faces the challenge of maintaining party unity and influence with one less Senator. The Greens currently hold 11 seats in the Senate, often sharing the balance of power with crossbenchers, but Cox’s departure could weaken their negotiating leverage on key legislation.

Reasons Behind the Move

In her statement, Cox emphasized that her decision to join Labor was driven by a sense of alignment with the party’s platform and its vision for Australia’s future. “I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting on where I can best serve the people of Western Australia and the nation,” Cox said. “Labor’s commitment to practical, progressive change resonates with my values, and I believe I can make a meaningful contribution within this team.”

Prime Minister Albanese welcomed Cox into the fold, describing her as a “dedicated public servant” with a strong track record of advocating for her constituents. He highlighted her experience as a Yamatji-Noongar woman and her work on Indigenous issues as valuable assets to Labor’s Senate team. “Dorinda brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to fairness and justice,” Albanese said. “We’re thrilled to have her join us as we continue to deliver for Australians.”

A Controversial Past

Cox’s defection has not come without scrutiny, as her time with the Greens was marred by allegations of bullying within her office. In 2024, reports emerged that 20 staff members had left her office over a three-year period, with several lodging formal complaints about a toxic workplace culture. The WA Greens censured Cox over these allegations, which included claims of intimidating behavior and poor management. At the time, Cox denied the accusations, stating that they were “mischaracterizations” of her leadership style.

When pressed on this issue during the press conference, Albanese defended Cox, asserting that the allegations had been “dealt with appropriately” through internal processes. “Dorinda has acknowledged the concerns raised and has taken steps to address them,” he said. “We’re confident in her ability to move forward and contribute positively to our team.” However, some political commentators on X have questioned whether this past controversy could impact Cox’s standing within Labor and her public image moving forward.

Political Implications

Cox’s move strengthens Labor’s position in the Senate, where they now hold 29 seats following the 2025 election. This increase could reduce the government’s reliance on the Greens and other crossbenchers to pass legislation, potentially streamlining their legislative agenda on issues like climate policy, economic reform, and social welfare. For the Greens, the loss of Cox is a blow to their influence, particularly as they navigate a leadership transition with Larissa Waters at the helm.

Political analysts have noted that Cox’s defection may signal broader tensions within the progressive wing of Australian politics. The Greens have long positioned themselves as a more radical alternative to Labor, often criticizing the latter for not going far enough on issues like emissions reductions and wealth taxes. Cox’s decision to join Labor could be seen as a pragmatic move, reflecting a belief that she can achieve more within a larger party that has a greater chance of implementing policy.

On X, reactions to the news have been mixed. Some users expressed shock at Cox’s departure, with one post stating, “Dorinda Cox switching to Labor is the last thing I expected—huge blow for the Greens.” Others speculated on the broader implications, with a user commenting, “This might give Labor the edge they need in the Senate, but what does it mean for the progressive vote? Are the Greens losing their grip?” Meanwhile, a few voices criticized Cox, referencing the bullying allegations and questioning her motives for the switch.

Cox’s Background and Future Role

Dorinda Cox has been a trailblazer in Australian politics as one of the few Indigenous women in the Senate. A Yamatji-Noongar woman, she has been vocal on issues affecting First Nations communities, including closing the gap in health and education outcomes and advocating for truth-telling and treaty processes. Before entering politics, Cox had a career in law enforcement, working as a police officer and later in roles focused on addressing family and domestic violence.

Within Labor, Cox is expected to take on a prominent role in shaping the party’s policies on Indigenous affairs and social justice. Her Senate term runs until 2028, giving her ample time to influence Labor’s agenda. However, her defection may also complicate relationships with her former Greens colleagues, particularly on issues where the two parties have historically diverged.

The Broader Landscape

This defection comes at a time of heightened political activity in Australia, as the Albanese government seeks to cement its legacy following the 2025 election. Labor’s strengthened Senate position could pave the way for more ambitious reforms, though it may also strain relations with the Greens, who have been a key partner on progressive legislation. For the Greens, Cox’s departure underscores the challenges of maintaining party cohesion while pushing for systemic change in a political system dominated by two major parties.

As this story unfolds, it will likely continue to spark debate about loyalty, ideology, and the future of progressive politics in Australia. Cox’s move may inspire other politicians to reassess their allegiances, while also putting pressure on the Greens to redefine their role in the Senate under Larissa Waters’ leadership.