About the Project

A community project to give Sturt its own voice in Parliament

The Independent Sturt Project is a group of local people working to elect a community independent for the federal seat of Sturt - someone chosen by this community, and answerable to it rather than to a party.

Run by locals

We are volunteers from right across the electorate, with a wide range of backgrounds and views, brought together by a shared wish to see Sturt better represented in Canberra.

Guided by what we hear

Our priorities come from listening to people across Sturt, and every policy we develop is tested against two questions - is it fair, and can it be sustained over the long term?

Here for the long term

We are building something that keeps working between elections as well as during them, so the community has a voice whenever it matters.

What is a community independent?

A community independent is a candidate who isn't a member of any political party, and who is chosen by a local group through an open process rather than preselected by a party. Once elected, they are free to consider each piece of legislation on its merits and on what it means for the people they represent.

In recent years, communities in many parts of Australia have taken this approach and elected representatives who answer directly to them. We think Sturt deserves the same opportunity.

How the Project is organised

A board looks after governance and continuity, so the Project can keep going from one election to the next, and a campaign team runs things day to day. Most of the work is done by volunteers, who give their time in whatever way suits them, from doorknocking and events to research, design and data.

How the Project is funded

The Project relies on donations from people who would like to see Sturt represented differently, and many of our supporters give a small amount each month. Political donations are not tax deductible, and donations are disclosed in line with Australian electoral law.

Find out more

Get in touch

We'd love to hear from you, whether you have a question, an idea or a few hours to spare. You can email us at [email protected], or find us on Facebook and Instagram.