Two independent Australian Members of Parliament, Zali Steggall and Allegra Spender, have launched a new centrist political party named Community Strong Australia. The party, introduced on Thursday in Canberra, states its aim is to provide "unity over division and reason over rage" and to counter an increasingly polarized political landscape.
Community Strong Australia will operate without a designated leader, allowing members to vote freely rather than along strict party lines. Steggall and Spender, part of a group of independent MPs known as "teals" who generally align on socially liberal values and advocate for climate action, described the new party as an "alternate political force" to Australia's established two-party structure. Historically, Australia's federal politics has been dominated by the center-left Labor Party and the conservative Liberal-National Coalition.
In response to questions about the recent surge in support for right-wing parties, such as One Nation, Steggall and Spender indicated their decision was guided by constituent feedback. "People are frustrated and tired of the status quo," Spender commented, adding that some voters feel disconnected from current political options. Steggall, a federal MP since 2019, emphasized the desire for practical solutions over political infighting, stating the new party is an "invitation" to voters.
Key policy areas for Community Strong Australia will include housing affordability, cost of living pressures, climate change, childcare, education, and healthcare. The MPs clarified that Climate 200, an organization that has supported independent candidates, is not involved with the new party.
The party has submitted an application for registration with the Australian Electoral Commission, with finalization expected in October. Several other independent MPs have indicated they will not join, while some "teal" independents are reportedly still considering their options. The formation of the party comes as new electoral funding laws are set to take effect, which some independents have expressed concerns may disadvantage them.