The Australian Greens are joining the community in welcoming the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and baby Prince George of Cambridge to Australia, but say today is an occasion to consider why we wouldn't welcome them as friends from another country, rather than as future heads of state for Australia.

The Australian Greens say Tony Abbott is trying to burn up important protections in his so-called regulation bonfire.

"When Tony Abbott has a bonfire of regulations he hides his true agenda in the smoke," Greens Leader Christine Milne said.

"The Prime Minister's rhetoric on this repeal day is all about storytelling and hiding help for his mates. Many of these changes are routine review of redundant regulations, but there are some very bitter pills.

Australian Greens Leader Senator Christine Milne spoke to ABC Radio National Breakfast about the state elections in Tasmania and South Australia, and the Liberals' threat to World Heritage forests.

Australian Greens Leader Christine Milne today launched the Greens candidate for the Griffith by-election, Geoff Ebbs, saying the by-election would be a test of Prime Minister Tony Abbott's leadership and his secretive government.

"Despite his secretive government, Tony Abbott's true agenda of driving harsh budget cuts and environmental vandalism at the reef and in our forests has been exposed," Senator Milne said.

Releasing a list of the Abbott government's top failures, the Australian Greens say the first 100 days have been a secretive, cruel and chaotic preview of what is to come.

"During the election campaign the Abbott government's true agenda was hidden behind cheap rhetoric, but you can't run a country with a slogan," said Australian Greens Leader Christine Milne.

"The Abbott government has tried to claim a so-called mandate to take Australia back to the last century, but he doesn't have one.

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The Australian Greens Leader, Senator Christine Milne, introduced a motion to the Senate condemning the Abbott government considerations of modifying the boundaries of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. The motion reads as follows: 

Australian Greens Leader Christine Milne has expressed sadness and shock over the fatal accident at Mount Lyell copper mine.

"This is a devastating accident and I know all Tasmanians will be shocked and saddened to hear of these two tragic deaths. Our thoughts are with their families and co-workers.

"This brings back terrible memories of the Beaconsfield disaster. It is just terrible news for the community in Queenstown and for Tasmania.

"It is appropriate that a full and independent investigation be conducted.

Australian Greens Leader Christine Milne has expressed profound sadness at the passing of the great Nelson Mandela, but says the world will celebrate his life as a gift to South Africa, the world and all of humankind.

"South Africa and the world will today mourn the loss but celebrate the life of the great leader, freedom fighter and President, Nelson Mandela," Senator Milne said.

"Nelson Mandela inspired people around the world with great courage, commitment and personal sacrifice.