WA Greens Kimberley candidate Jaala Ozies vows to protect country and regional communities ahead of election

Jaala Ozies, a Djukun woman from Broome, has announced her candidacy for the Greens in the Kimberley, driven by a deep commitment to protecting country and advocating for regional communities. Encouraged by the party to take on the challenge, Ms Ozies says her personal values align with the Greens’ priorities of opposing fracking, tackling the high cost of living and ensuring better services for people in remote and regional areas. “I was tapped on the shoulder by the Greens and encouraged. So I decided to step up and take on the challenge because caring for country and speaking about the challenges of living in the Kimberley aligns with my personal values,” she said. A social worker and Master of Business, Ms Ozies brings a strong history of advocacy and lived experience in the Kimberley. Raised in the region with family ties spanning across the region, she understands firsthand the challenges of isolation, economic hardship and the struggle for equitable services. “The high cost of living is making life increasingly difficult, especially for families, elders and those in remote communities,” she said. “We need real investment in affordable housing, better regional health services and cheaper transport options so that people can access the care, jobs and opportunities they deserve.” With fracking still allowed in the Kimberley — the only region in WA where it remains legal — Ms Ozies believes decisive leadership is needed to protect land and water for future generations. “Many communities are seeing firsthand the damage caused by fracking, corporate greed, and government neglect,” she said. “They’re looking for real alternatives — leaders who will listen, stand up for country, and fight for our future. “More people in the Kimberley are recognising that the Greens are the only party fully committed to protecting our land, water and communities. The movement is growing because people are ready for change.” “The Kimberley is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty — we need leaders who will fight to protect it and ensure our communities can thrive.” As the election campaign ramps up, Ms Ozies is determined to show that the Greens is the party willing to challenge the status quo, prioritising people and the environment over corporate interests.