Three independent Australian MPs have formally launched a new centrist political party, the Australian Democrats, in a move that political strategists in the United Kingdom say mirrors the rise of reformist parties in British politics. The formation was announced in Canberra on Monday, with the MPs citing a desire to break the two-party duopoly and restore trust in federal governance.
The new party draws its founding members from the crossbench, including former Liberal and Labor supporters who left their respective parties over disagreements on climate policy and integrity standards. In a joint statement, the MPs declared that the Australian electorate is "crying out for a moderate, evidence-based alternative" to the major parties. They pledged to prioritise fiscal responsibility, environmental sustainability, and institutional transparency.
British political observers have noted the resemblance to the Liberal Democrats in the UK, as well as the more recent emergence of centrist groupings formed by MPs defecting from Conservative and Labour ranks. Professor James Bradshaw of the London School of Economics commented: "There is a clear pattern in Westminster systems of disillusioned voters turning to independent-minded figures who promise to be above party politics. Australia’s new party is another example of this trend."
The Australian Democrats have not yet announced a leader, indicating they will operate on a collective leadership model initially. Their immediate focus will be fielding candidates in the next federal election, due by 2025. Analysts caution that third parties historically struggle under Australia’s preferential voting system, but note that the growing number of independents in the House of Representatives suggests a shift in voter sentiment.
The move has received mixed reactions in Canberra. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the new party "risks splitting the progressive vote" and urged voters to stick with Labor to ensure stability. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton dismissed the group as "political tourists" with no chance of governing.
UK-based strategists remain sceptical about the long-term impact. "Centrist parties often show early momentum but fade when faced with the realities of campaign funding and media scrutiny," said Rebecca Marshall, a former Downing Street advisor. "However, in an era of declining major party membership, any new vehicle that taps into public frustration deserves attention."
The launch comes as trust in Australian political institutions is at an all-time low, according to recent polling from the Australian National University. The new party's founders hope to capitalise on this disillusionment, promising to restore faith in parliament through collaborative, rather than adversarial, politics.
