Former GetUp! director Simon Sheikh is making a tilt for an ACT Senate seat and has thrown his hat into the ring for Greens preselection.

He is after Liberal Senator Gary Humphries’ seat.

Simon Sheikh says he will campaign to protect public service jobs. Credit:Andrew Meares

The high-profile grass roots lobbyist has the blessing of Greens leader Christine Milne, but he will have to wait at least a month to find out whether the ACT branch of the party accepts him.

Last night Senator Milne said: ‘‘I’m delighted that a young man of Simon’s integrity, passion and skills is seeking to join our strong parliamentary team.’’