# Tim Clifford (politician)

Timothy James Clifford (born 31 March 1982) is an Australian politician and former member of the Western Australian Legislative Council. A member of Greens (WA), he represented the East Metropolitan Region from 22 May 2017 to 21 May 2021.

## Early life and education

Clifford was born in Perth, Western Australia, but his family moved to Albany shortly after his birth. He grew up in a single-parent household alongside his three sisters, with his mother juggling work and the responsibility of raising four children. He has credited this experience with shaping his belief in the importance of a strong social safety net, quality public education, and accessible healthcare.
After completing high school, Clifford traveled extensively and also trained with the Army Reserve before entering the construction industry. He worked throughout Western Australia, spending six years in fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) roles, experiencing firsthand the boom and bust cycle of the mining industry.
Seeking to broaden his career, Clifford pursued studies in journalism and political science at Edith Cowan University while also becoming active in politics.

## Political career
### Entry into politics

Clifford joined Greens (WA) in 2011 while still at university. He became actively involved in the party, serving as the Convenor of the Perth Regional Group and later as Co-convenor of the Election Campaign Committee.
Before being elected to parliament, Clifford stood as a Greens candidate in three elections:
* 2013 Western Australian state election – contested the seat of Mount Lawley
* 2013 Australian federal election - contested the Division of Stirling
* 2016 Australian federal election – contested the Division of Perth

### Legislative Council (2017–2021)

At the 2017 Western Australian state election, Clifford was elected to the Western Australian Legislative Council, representing the East Metropolitan Region. His term began on 22 May 2017.
As an MP, Clifford focused on climate action, affordable housing, and social justice issues.
In early 2020, Clifford introduced the Climate Change and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Bill 2020, which called for:
* Net zero emissions in Western Australia by 2040
* 100% renewable energy by 2030
He also pushed for a motion to declare a climate emergency in Western Australia and called for an end to government support for oil and gas companies** that contribute to climate change.

### 2021 state election defeat

Clifford was defeated in his bid for re-election at the 2021 Western Australian state election, losing his seat when the Greens (WA) vote declined. His term ended on 21 May 2021.

## Political views and advocacy

Clifford has been an advocate for:
* Strong climate policies, including phasing out fossil fuels and transitioning to renewable energy
* Affordable housing, addressing rental market instability and rising home prices
* A strong social safety net, ensuring welfare support, public education, and universal healthcare
* Greater scrutiny of corporate influence in politics, particularly in mining and fossil fuel industries

## Personal life

Clifford has lived in Perth for over 14 years and continues to be involved in environmental and social justice activism.