Independent MPs launch centrist Community Strong Australia

Two independent federal MPs, Zali Steggall and Allegra Spender, have launched a new centrist political party, Community Strong Australia, positioning it as an alternative to what they describe as an increasingly divisive political landscape. The party was formally announced on Thursday, June 25, 2026, in Canberra.

The MPs, who are part of the group of socially liberal, climate-focused independents known as "teals," said the party would champion "unity over division and reason over rage." They emphasized a grassroots, community-up model where elected representatives would retain a free vote on all parliamentary matters except motions of confidence and supply. The party will have no single leader.

Key policy focuses include housing affordability, cost-of-living pressures, climate action, childcare, education, and healthcare. The founders also highlighted support for small business, intergenerational fairness, and establishing guardrails for artificial intelligence.

An application to register Community Strong Australia as a political party has been lodged with the Australian Electoral Commission, with registration expected to be finalized by October. Official party status would...