Meet Lucy O’Brien

Lucy O’Brien is the Animal Justice Party candidate for the Stafford by-election.

She cares deeply about animals, people and our planet, and believes our politics should reflect that.

Community, children and care

Working as a Kindergarten Teacher and Director in the community not for profit sector, Lucy sees early childhood as a critical time in life. She is passionate about supporting children and their families to access high quality, play based education.

Protecting community based Kindergartens in Queensland, especially longstanding services, is a key priority because of the role they play in supporting families and strengthening local communities.

Standing up for animals and the vulnerable

Animal welfare and animal rights are at the heart of Lucy’s work.

Most people in our community recognise that animals are sentient beings who can feel joy and safety, as well as fear and pain. This is reflected in the way we care for our companion animals.

There is also a clear link between harm toward animals and harm toward people, particularly children. These are among the most vulnerable in our society. Everyone deserves to be safe, and that includes those who cannot speak for themselves.

Protecting nature and wildlife

A love of nature has always been part of Lucy’s life. As a child, she even created a petition to stop a tree being cut down in her backyard, something she still laughs about today as a self described “tree hugger”.

Through her work, she supports children to connect with and respect the natural world. In her own life, she aims to live sustainably by reducing waste, avoiding unnecessary consumption and supporting community based solutions.

The protection of native vegetation and wildlife is critical, and the current rate of deforestation in Queensland is a serious concern for the future of our environment.

A true local

Lucy was born and raised in the Stafford electorate.

Her immediate family has lived in the same home in Grange for 40 years, and her extended family has been in the area for over 60 years. She comes from a close knit family, with most relatives still living nearby.

Like many locals, her memories are tied to places like Kedron Brook, Stafford City, and Wilston Village. From bike rides along the creek to working at the local bakery, these experiences have shaped her strong connection to the community.

After studying Early Childhood Education at QUT Kelvin Grove and completing her final placement at Wooloowin State School, Lucy spent time travelling and living across Australia before returning to Brisbane to be close to family.

Giving back

Outside of her work, Lucy contributes to the community through volunteering, advocacy and education.

She supports animal sanctuaries, participates in community campaigns and works with the Animal Justice Party to push for stronger protections for animals.

She is also a Pyjama Angel with The Pyjama Foundation, supporting a child in foster care, and runs a network for community Kindergarten educators across Queensland. She has also helped local Kindergartens improve their sustainability practices.

Lucy’s favourite local spots

• House: My Mum and Dad’s of course
• Restaurant: Oh Boy Bok Choy
• Yoga Studio: Soho Yoga
• Nature Spot: Raven Street Reserve
• Entertainment: Hijinx Hotel
• Playground: Bradbury Park

Why Lucy is running

Stafford deserves a representative who genuinely cares about animals, people and the future of our planet.

Lucy is running to be a strong, compassionate voice for the community.