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Former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull says the vacuum in Australian politics has created the conditions for a new centrist party but has distanced himself from taking part in its formation.
“There’s definitely an opportunity there. So people think the Liberal Party is moving away from the centre. That’s why the turquoise colors were chosen, and the more the Liberal Party tries to chase, imitate and copy One Nation, the more it increases the votes for One Nation,” he told Radio National.
“I think there’s a gap for an alternative center party. Now, it’s very clear that the teal people will be part of it or will do it, but I talked to them about making it public as far back as a couple of years ago, but it’s up to them whether they actually decide to do that. So I’m not interested in any plans to set something up.”
Asked if he had spoken to some independents about the political climate, Turnbull said: “I’ve been speaking to a lot of people.”
“I’m not actively involved in politics at all, but you know, I definitely talk to people like Allegra Harcama. I talked to Zali. [Steggall] has been discussed in the past and with others.
