By Aoife Moynihan and Michelle Giglio
Independents Zali Steggall and Allegra Spender have formed the Community Strong Australia (CSA) party, in a move which is hoped will give independents a better chance of election to the Senate.
The new party will not have a leader, and its elected representatives will have a free vote and not be bound by its caucus. Members must pledge to back the CSA core values and policy pillars, outlined in its constitution, Ms Steggall said in a press conference on 25 June.
“The community independent movement has shown what’s possible when people unite around shared values and practical solutions,” Ms Steggall said. “CSA is about extending that opportunity to more Australians.”
CSA plans to run community-backed candidates in both houses of Parliament who share a commitment to ‘integrity, climate action, economic prosperity, practical solutions and genuine engagement with the people they represent.’ Only registered political parties can run in the Senate – unlike the House of Representatives, where individuals may nominate for a seat.
“Australia is at a turning point, and people are worried about what the future holds,” Ms Steggall stated. “CSA offers unity over division and reason over rage. We invite everyone who shares those values to join us.”
Ms Steggall was elected as the Warringah MP in 2019 as an Independent, defeating former Prime Minister, Liberal Tony Abbott. She was the first of the so-called ‘teal’ wave of community independents subsequently elected around the nation in 2022. The 2028 Federal Election will be her fourth campaign.
“At a time when others are promoting conflict and hate, I feel a strong sense of responsibility to provide a real political alternative and promote a positive narrative about what Australia is and what we can achieve together,” Ms Steggall said.
Independent Mackellar MP Sophie Scamps has not ruled out joining the new party, stating it was a ‘significant moment in Australian politics.’
“I am taking the time to consult with my community before making any decision,” Dr Scamps told PL. “My decision will be based on what is in the best interests of the people of Mackellar and the future of our nation.
“My priority remains exactly as it has always been – to represent the people of Mackellar and to work every day to deliver the best outcomes for our community and our country.”
When rumours of the new party surfaced earlier this year, Ms Steggall said part of her motivation was because she was ‘deeply concerned by the rise of hateful and divisive rhetoric fuelled by One Nation.’
Primary support for One Nation was up 2% to 31.5%, according to polling by Roy Morgan from 15 to 21 June, ahead of the ALP, which was down 1% to 27%. Support for Independents was down 1% at 10.5%.
Bradfield MP Nicolette Boele congratulated the two MPs on their party, but ruled out joining for now. “That is the mandate Bradfield gave me, and any decision to change that belongs to my community. I am still working through what this party would allow me to do for the people I represent that I cannot already do as a community independent.
“On policy, I expect to work with CSA often. Particularly on a strong economy, climate action, and integrity, they will find a committed collaborator in me.
“Building something like this takes vision and courage, and I am genuinely excited about what it could mean for the country.”
CSA has applied to be registered with the Australian Electoral Commission, which should be finalised by October.
