Canberra: Two independent Australian lawmakers have joined forces to launch a new centrist political party, Community Strong Australia, which they say is designed to provide voters with an alternative to an increasingly polarised political landscape.
The party was officially unveiled in Canberra by independent Sydney MPs Zali Steggall and Allegra Spender, who highlighted that it aims to promote unity, constructive dialogue, and practical solutions over political division.
Unlike traditional political parties, Community Strong Australia will operate without a formal leader and will allow its members to vote according to their own judgment rather than following strict party directives.
Steggall and Spender are part of the group of independent lawmakers commonly known as the ‘teals,’ who are generally associated with socially progressive policies and stronger action on climate change. They said the new party is intended to provide an alternative political force to Australia’s long-established two-party system.
Australian politics
Australian politics has historically been dominated by the centre-left Australian Labor Party and the conservative Liberal-National Coalition. The Labor Party secured a decisive victory in the 2025 federal election, winning a second term in office, while the Coalition suffered its worst electoral defeat and subsequently faced internal divisions.
The announcement also comes during growing support for the right-wing One Nation, led by Pauline Hanson. Recent polling has indicated increasing public backing for the party, including one survey that ranked Hanson as the preferred choice for prime minister.
Addressing questions about whether One Nation’s rise influenced the creation of the new party, Steggall and Spender stated that their decision was driven primarily by concerns raised by voters who are dissatisfied with the current political landscape and seeking a different approach.
Spender noted that many Australians feel frustrated with the status quo and are looking for political representation that better reflects their communities and priorities. The Community Strong Australia party intends to engage with voters beyond its existing support base and offer a broader platform for community voices.
Steggall, who entered federal politics in 2019 after defeating former Prime Minister Tony Abbott in a seat held by the Liberal Party for more than a century, noted that the Australians are increasingly seeking solutions-focused politics rather than political conflict and blame.
Key policy priorities for Community Strong Australia will include;
- Housing affordability
- Cost-of-living pressures
- Climate action
- Childcare
- Education
- Healthcare
The founders also clarified that Climate 200, which has previously supported independent candidates in several Liberal-held electorates, is not involved in the establishment of the new party.
The move comes as new electoral funding rules provide registered political parties with larger campaign spending allowances, a change some independents argue could place them at a disadvantage during elections.
While several independent MPs have already ruled out joining Community Strong Australia, two other teal independents are reportedly still considering whether to become part of the new political movement. The party has submitted an application for registration with the Australian Electoral Commission, with official registration expected to be completed in October.
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