Animal Justice Party names a candidate for Hammond
Murray Bridge’s Ruby Eckermann will stand for the minor party at the 2026 state election.
A sixth candidate has entered the state election race in the Murraylands electorate of Hammond.
Murray Bridge podiatrist and animal welfare advocate Ruby Eckermann hopes to raise the profile of the Animal Justice Party at the upcoming election, to give voters a way to show the major parties that animal welfare is important.
Among other policies, the party is advocating for “Veticare”, a program which would help people with veterinary care for their companion animals.
“In my experience there are many who want the best for their pets but cannot afford it,” Ms Eckermann said.
“A means-tested system to provide financial support to assist is vital in avoiding neglect and animal suffering.”
Ms Eckermann is also interested in pushing for CCTV in animal handling environments, including abattoirs: “If there is nothing inappropriate going on, what is the issue?”
The Animal Justice Party also stands for ending greyhound racing, preserving wildlife, compassionate farming and responsible cat management.
“The Animal Justice Party is not a single-issue political group,” Ms Eckermann said.
“Our mantra – ‘animals, people, planet’ – means a kinder, more sustainable world for all.”
Ms Eckermann is the chair of Murraylands Animal Welfare Watch, a local advocacy group which runs an annual Paws Walk in Murray Bridge and sponsors art prizes focused on animals.
In 2024 she petitioned the Murray Bridge council to do a better job of caring for and regulating cats in the district.
She might be a long shot to defeat Liberal MP Adrian Pederick, but she suggested that a vote for Animal Justice would still send a powerful message.
“A vote for me is not wasted,” she said.
“Your vote will register and then flow through to one of the major candidates.”
- More information: sa.animaljusticeparty.org/2026_state_election.
