The Australian Greens are calling on the Chinese Government to respect the calls from tens of thousands of protestors in Hong Kong who are campaigning for democracy and universal suffrage.

"The right to peaceful protest is a hallmark of democracy, as is the right of people to nominate for election. A free vote is not truly free when there are only vetted candidates to choose from," said Greens Leader Christine Milne.

"The people of Hong Kong aspire to a healthy and prosperous future based on their commitment to democracy.

On behalf of all Australian Greens Senators who had the pleasure of working with Harry Evans during his time as Clerk of the Senate, I wish to express my sincere condolences to his family.

Harry was a fierce defender of the Senate. He was an outstanding advocate for democracy and democratic principles, and with a keen understanding of constitutional history he was not afraid to call out the excesses of executive power.

The Australian Greens today launched a plan to keep federal politicians honest. "Voters must be able to trust politicians, but you can't trust Labor or Tony Abbott to be honest unless it is in their own interests, or in the interests of their big business mates," Greens Leader Senator Christine Milne said.

"It is time we restored honesty and integrity in politics which is why the Greens have a plan to lift the standards of government.

"The Australian Greens want to end the ‘deals for mates' culture.