Rise of Disengagement and Demand for Change: 

Zali Steggall Event Draws nearly 200 people, Highlighting the Need for Local Representation

The rise of Fairfax Matters and Voices of Fisher reflects a growing movement of concerned Sunshine Coast residents fed up with disengaged representation and eager for change. At a recent sold-out event featuring MP Zali Steggall MP OAM, over 180 locals gathered to hear her inspiring story and learn how grassroots movements can lead to political change.

Steggall herself managed to win the safe Liberal seat of Warringah from sitting MP Tony Abbott.

The key points she spoke about on the evening included:

Housing and Immigration 
"By 2026, more than 22 percent of Australians will be aged over 65  — up from 16 percent in 2020, which was already double the 8.3 percent at the start of the 1970s." www.sydney.edu.au

With Australia’s aging population and less people in the workforce Zali said Australia will require significant immigration and infrastructure investment to maintain economic growth.

Expanding housing sustainably is a crucial challenge that must be addressed.

Rising Insurance and Homeownership Costs 
Zali highlighted how climate change impacts us all, especially through rising insurance and homeownership costs.

The Insurance Council of Australia has warned that many homeowners are underinsured. Once insurance lapses, banks may only check homes when purchased.

Communities must unite to mitigate these rising costs, and Zali pointed out that for every $1 invested in climate change action, we can save between $4 to $7 in future expenses.

Climate and Long-Term Thinking 
Zali stressed that climate action cannot be delayed. While Australia has made some progress, much more remains to be done.

Investing now in climate solutions will secure a sustainable future for our young people and future generations.

Parliamentary Behaviour and Governance 
Zali gave a behind-the-scenes look at Parliament, pointing out that behaviour in Parliament would not be acceptable in any other professional setting.

Too much time is wasted on showmanship, distracting from critical issues like climate change, housing affordability, and HECS debt relief.

Misleading Political Advertising
Zali also raised concerns about the discrepancies in standards for political advertising compared to business advertising. She emphasized the need for greater transparency and accountability in political campaigns.

Active Democracy
Democracy requires participation, and Zali encouraged the audience to get involved, especially those frustrated with the status quo.vHer own success in unseating former MP Tony Abbott was driven by the support of a motivated, local community determined to make a change.

Qualities for a Successful Candidate
A strong candidate, Zali explained, must reflect the concerns of their community, be professional, and build trust. Her campaign was built around the “3 Ps”—polite, positive, and prepared—with “purposeful” added for her re-election.

She emphasized that taking on big party machines requires these standards.

Crossbench Influence
Finally, Zali noted the growing strength of the independent movement, which offers voters more choice and fosters healthier competition in politics.

This was a truly inspiring night, and the event highlighted how community involvement can drive real change.

It’s clear that the independent movement is making waves, and the need for climate action and sustainable growth has never been more urgent.

Community involvement is key to driving real change.

Thank you to photographer Colin McLellan for capturing the event.