One of the MPs at the centre of the teal party whispers, Zali Steggall, has confirmed to the ABC’s RN Breakfast that there are conversations going on between the group of independents on forming a party.

Steggall says the discussions are looking at how they can work in a “collaborative way to be more effective in holding government to account”

Steggall ousted former Liberal prime minister, Tony Abbott in 2019 in the Sydney seat of Warringah.

The independent says that she’s considering different options but warns that not all the speculation in the media is correct – ruling out that she’s had conversations with other Liberals.

There are conversations [with independents]. That’s about all I can say at this point … I’ve worked with my fellow members on the crossbench a lot across both houses, the Senate and the House. And I can really see how we find efficiencies, we work together in supporting one another.

I’ve had discussions with David [Pocock], as I have with many others. Only independents, though, speculation about discussions with Liberals … I certainly have not had those discussions.

Steggall also says that she’s spoken to Malcolm Turnbull during her time as a parliamentarian, but not about this potential venture.