Spender and Steggall Confirm Plans for New Party That Has No Leaders or Candidates

Allegra Spender and Zali Steggall have confirmed plans to form a new political party called Community Strong Australia, Abc reported. The grouping is not yet registered and currently has no leaders or candidates. Spender, who holds the seat of Wentworth won in 2022, and Steggall, who holds Warringah won in 2019, made the announcement during a joint appearance on ABC Radio National.

They said party members would collaborate on policy while retaining a free vote. Spender stated that wealthy donors including Mike Cannon-Brookes and Scott Farquhar have not been asked to participate. Steggall said Climate 200 would remain focused on independent representation.

New electoral funding laws passed in the last parliament allow parties to spend millions on national advertising while limiting Climate 200 donations to independents. Spender said she is open to disaffected moderate Liberals joining if aligned with the party's values and connected to the community.

Steggall described the party as centrist and focused on sensible economic management, climate action, integrity and equality.

Spender added that the party is for those who are pro-business but progressive on climate change. Sophie Scamps and Nicolette Boele have not ruled out joining but will consult their communities. Monique Ryan, Kate Chaney and David Pocock have said they do not plan to join.

Spender published a white paper on tax that proposed a flat capital gains tax discount of 30 per cent.