Independent member for Warringah, Zali Steggall, discusses her unusual path to politics and election integrity.

Among all the commentary about the ‘teal wave’ in the 2022 federal election, how has the presence of more independent candidates in Australia’s chambers of power changed the status quo of politics? And what more needs to change? 

In the face of scare campaigns from both major parties, how can we make sure claims made on the campaign trail by candidates or third-party campaign groups are based in truth? 

And how can we reform campaign financing laws in ways that ensure transparent donations — for both independents and candidates from the major parties? 

On this episode of Democracy Sausage, Independent MP and the “OG Teal” joins frequent guest Professor Paul Pickering and Professor Mark Kenny to discuss her journey as an independent candidate and how to make Australian elections fairer and more transparent. 

Zali Steggall is the independent member for Warringah. 

Paul Pickering is an Emeritus Professor and Director of the ANU Australian Studies Institute.   

Mark Kenny is a Professor at the ANU Australian Studies Institute. He came to the University after a high-profile journalistic career including six years as chief political correspondent and national affairs editor for The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and The Canberra Times
 
Democracy Sausage with Mark Kenny is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts, Google Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. We’d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to democracysausage@anu.edu.au. 

You may also like

Article Card Image

Democracy Sausage: On the road

Former Attorney-General George Brandis joins Democracy Sausage to discuss the Liberal Party’s “Jack Kerouac political experience” and wider political trends.

Article Card Image

Democracy Sausage: Class is in session

The hosts of Democracy Sausage are joined by political scientist Jill Sheppard and ANU students to gauge the current state of politics.

Article Card Image

Australia needs to beef up its Russia literacy

Despite its geographical distance, Russia's actions have real consequences for Australia. We need to stay properly informed and pay attention.

Subscribe to ANU Reporter