The Australian Democrats have announced they will field a candidate for the Mayo by-election.
Adelaide Hills resident and high school laboratory technician Andrew Castrique will contest the seat, left vacant by the recent resignation of former foreign minister Alexander Downer.
ALP national president Mike Rann last week confirmed Labor would not put up a candidate, saying Mayo had always been a safe Liberal seat.
"The Liberals take the Mayo electorate for granted and by not providing a contest, Rudd Labor shows that they do not have the courage required of government," Democrats state campaign director Max Baumann said in a statement today.
"This election provides the Democrats with a great opportunity and we will take hold of that opportunity with both hands."
Mr Castrique said he was serious about tackling climate change and increasing funding for support programs in schools.
"We must not let the oil, energy and transport conglomerates distract us from our task of addressing global warming," he said in a statement.
"Tough decisions need to be made that will in the long run ensure that our environment and our beautiful Adelaide Hills and Lower Lakes are there for our children and grandchildren to enjoy for generations to come."
The Greens earlier today launched their campaign for the by-election, with candidate Lynton Vonow.
The Liberal Party members of the electorate were meeting behind closed doors at Morphettville racecourse this afternoon to choose their candidate. The result is expected to be announced later today.
