By forming a new party – Community Strong Australia – lower house independents are finally realising that true policy influence lies in the upper house.

Independents Zali Steggall and Allegra Spender will form a new political party, Community Strong Australia, hoping to gain a spot in the Senate.

Sydney independent MPs Allegra Spender and Zali Steggall have unveiled a new two-person party called Community Strong Australia. Other teals are not yet on board.