Lynn MacLaren

Lynn Ellen MacLaren (born 24 March 1962) is an American-born Australian politician. She is currently serving as a councillor for the City of Albany. MacLaren previously served as a Member of the Western Australian Legislative Council for the Greens (WA) from 2009 to 2017, where she advocated for climate action, social justice, and environmental sustainability.

Early life MacLaren was born in Colorado Springs and studied journalism at University of California, where she began a career in journalism as the chief photographer and staff reporter for two small California daily newspapers, the Desert Dispatch and the Victor Valley Daily Press. In the mid 1990s, MacLaren was prominent in the campaign to put live animal exports on the public agenda and was the foundation president of the People Against Cruelty in Animal Transport, also serving on the executive board of Animals Australia.

From 1997, MacLaren worked for Jim Scott MLC and did project work with the Environmental Defender's Office, and the Community Housing Coalition (WA). She later worked as a researcher for Giz Watson MLC.

MacLaren's portfolios included: planning, housing, community services, social inclusion, heritage, animals, volunteering, seniors, disability issues, food and GMOs, sexuality, tourism, arts and culture, small business and science and innovation.

MacLaren has introduced several private members bills in her portfolio areas: Climate Change Readiness Coastal Planning and Protection Bill, Same-Sex Marriage Bill, Free Range Eggs Truth in Labelling Bill, Road Traffic Amendment Keeping a Safe Distance from Bicycles Bill, Biodiversity Conservation Priority Reforms Bill.

She has served as a Member of the Environment and Public Affairs Committee and the Legislation Committee. While on the EPAC, MacLaren participated in an inquiry into the Transportation of Detained Persons which followed on from the death in a custodial van of Aboriginal man, Mr Ward, who was being transported in the hot conditions of northern Western Australia. She made a Minority Report in one the committee's Petition Report opposing the expansion of urban development in Moore River.

MacLaren was defeated at the 2017 state election.

At the 2023 Western Australian local elections, she was elected as a councillor in the City of Albany.

Political views and advocacy Lynn MacLaren is known for her strong advocacy on environmental and social justice issues. As a member of the Greens (WA), she has focused on climate action, renewable energy, and sustainable development. MacLaren has been a vocal supporter of policies to address climate change and promote environmental conservation, including advocating for stronger protections for Western Australia's natural resources.

In addition to environmental concerns, MacLaren has worked on social justice issues, including advocating for the rights of Indigenous Australians, affordable housing, and greater investment in public services. She has also been an advocate for animal welfare, pushing for reforms in areas such as factory farming and wildlife protection.

MacLaren was also a strong supporter of same-sex marriage and played an active role in advocating for its legalization in Australia. She introduced the Same-Sex Marriage Bill in the Western Australian Parliament in 2013, which sought to amend the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 1998 to allow for the registration and recognition of same-sex marriages in the state. She has also spoken at rallies and public forums, emphasizing the importance of equality and non-discrimination for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation.