Zali Steggall’s manifesto reveals her plans for the future of Warringah

Warringah’s new MP Zali Steggall reveals her manifesto to Manly Daily readers after her shock win in Saturday’s election, which saw Tony Abbott lose his seat after 25 years.

Independent candidate for Warringah Zali Steggall. Picture: Bianca De Marchi.

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Warringah, I am truly honoured to be your new voice in parliament.

This was a contest of old ideas versus sensible progress and a safer future for our children and generations to come.

You have voted for a cleaner future. I pledge to be a climate leader and work hard for you and find solutions to our climate and energy wars.

I thank and commend the Honourable Tony Abbott, who has dedicated 25 years to us as our local member for his service to our community.

Zali Steggall pictured with her husband Tim Irving and their dog Charli at Manly Beach after Zali won the seat of Warringah the night before. Picture by Damian Shaw

No matter your postcode, background, gender, sexual preference or political view, I will strive to improve your way of life and deliver results.

In doing so, I am committed to ushering in a new more positive era for our local community.

A new era that supports a progressive economy that rewards local businesses and families, supports innovation and jobs, and creates more equal career opportunities for all.

A new era where I will push for real long-term action on climate change that focuses on renewable energy, clean transport, job transition plans and an orderly retirement of coal.

Zali Steggall pictured with her husband Tim Irving at Manly Beach. Picture by Damian Shaw

A new era where I will pursue honesty and respect in government, truth in political advertising and fight against corruption and vested interests in politics.

In health, I will work for increased support and improvements for community-based mental health services, aged care that promotes independence and wellbeing, and continued improvements to the NDIS — something that many families are desperately calling for.

We need to close the gap with our First Nations people.

Locally, I will work to protect and enhance our environment, support nationally significant industry hubs — for example in the creative industries and clean energy technologies — and put arts and culture back on the policy agenda, creating more opportunities for emerging local artists.

This election campaign saw people in Warringah, many who had never participated in a campaign before, form an amazing team and community. I want this to continue. We are stronger by being together and supporting one another.

I have always loved living in Warringah and raising my kids here. Australia is the lucky country and we have a very special corner of it here in Warringah. Together, let’s make it the best it can be.

Let’s get started,

Zali Steggall.