A new political party – Independents for Canberra – will compete at the October ACT elections.

Party founders are Thomas Emerson, an adviser to independent ACT senator David Pocock, and former Liberal Clare Carnell, daughter of former ACT chief minister Kate Carnell. 

They say territorians are dissatisfied with the Labor-Greens government and don’t see the Canberra Liberals as a viable alternative.

They are “inspired” inspired by the success of community independents – so-called teals – at the last federal election.

Emerson says: “I’ve been speaking with community leaders representing diverse groups of people across the ACT and there’s a big appetite for a community-led independent movement at this year’s election.

“This government has been in power for 22 years. More community involvement in how decisions are made is well overdue. 

“Canberrans want change and we deserve better representation. It’s time to shift the balance of power in the ACT.” 

Emerson intends to stand for election.

Carnell, a barrister and law lecturer, says her goal is to support competent candidates who are ready to deliver for the ACT. 

“We want candidates who have never considered entering politics – that’s a good thing! We want fresh perspectives, not career politicians,” she says. 

“There are talented people all across the ACT who see Canberra’s potential and would make fantastic MLAs. 

“It’s time to bring them together and get them elected. 

“If you’re committed, capable, and have integrity in spades, we want you.” 

The party will be launched at the RUC in Turner on February 11. Kate Chaney MP, Senator David Pocock and former independent ACT MLA Michael Moore will speak about the community independent movement. 

Meanwhile, convener of the right-leaning independent Belco Party and former Liberal MLA Bill Stefaniak has offered support of the Independents for Canberra party.

Independents for Canberra is calling for supporters, volunteers, candidate nominations and RSVPs for its first town hall meeting through the party’s website: independentsforcanberra.com