Greens urged to pick indigenous candidate

Tasmania's Greens are being urged to nominate an indigenous candidate to replace outgoing Senator Christine Milne.

Aboriginal activist Michael Mansell says many people are "perfectly able" to represent the island state as the first indigenous Tasmanian in federal parliament.

He says that, if endorsed by the Aboriginal community, the candidate should not have to be a Greens member if they represent the party's values.

So far, only Tasmanian Greens MP Nick McKim and Launceston lawyer Vanessa Bleyer have announced they will stand for pre-selection.

Mr Mansell believes the pair should "only pursue their nominations if a suitable Aboriginal cannot be found."