Parliamentary Update and Warringah Events
24 March 2026
It’s been a busy start to the year in Parliament, and I’ve been pushing to ensure our community’s voice is heard on the issues that matter most to you.
I share concerns about rising fuel prices and cost of living pressures that so many are experiencing. I will be pressing the Government for more to be done to mitigate the impact of the Middle East conflict on cost of living and small business.
Amid global oil shocks, I’ve argued that generating more renewable energy in Australia is key to reducing our exposure to volatile international markets.
I’ve also opposed the Albanese Government’s rushed changes to temporary visa laws, which risk unfairly impacting entire cohorts overseas. And amid rising extremist rhetoric, I’ve called on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to introduce truth in political advertising laws to tackle AI deepfakes and misinformation, to protect voters from lies and manipulation.
On an important local issue, I’ve engaged with Defence on the proposed partial divestment of HMAS Penguin, making clear our community’s views must be heard on the future of this vital public asset. I will continue to advocate for transparency in the process and for outcomes that protect community interests, public access and the long-term value of this significant site.
Beyond Parliament, it’s been inspiring to see Australians shine at the Milano Cortina Paralympics - especially Warringah’s own Ben Tudhope, who brought home silver and bronze.
Across the electorate, my team has been celebrating Lunar New Year, supporting Clean Up Australia Day, hosting Climate Action Week events, marking International Women’s Day, and welcoming over 70 students to our inaugural Warringah Youth Voices event.
Zali
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Parliament Update
As petrol prices surge following the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East, I spoke in Parliament to highlight why energy sovereignty matters.
Investment in local renewables, battery storage and electrification is essential to cut power bills and reduce exposure to global oil and gas shocks. For Warringah households and small businesses, local solar and battery solutions provide a practical path to greater reliability and more stable energy costs.
I also highlighted the experience of Cremorne resident Rob McKay, who shared his strata block’s transition to shared solar power and battery storage. His story demonstrates how apartment owners can take control of their energy bills and energy security, while playing a meaningful role in Australia’s clean energy transition.
Concerns were raised about proposed changes enabling the government to suspend valid temporary visas for entire groups in response to overseas events. These powers, which passed Parliament, are overly broad and risk unfairly impacting people travelling for study, work or family reasons - issues that directly affect Warringah’s globally connected community. I moved amendments to ensure compensation for those affected.
During Question Time, I pressed the Prime Minister to urgently implement laws banning political misinformation and AI deepfakes, alongside clear rules to prevent deceptive campaigning and safeguard our democracy as far right groups like Advance are increasingly platforming hateful, extreme content.
I was also pleased to host an Ocean Decade Australia event with the Parliamentary Friends of Ocean and Sustainable Development, focusing on how to balance a thriving ocean economy with strong environmental sustainability and protection. The discussion reinforced the importance of safeguarding marine ecosystems while supporting industries and communities that rely on them.
To view more of my parliamentary speeches, visit Parliament Updates
Local News & Events
Warringah Youth Voices
It was a pleasure to host the Warringah Youth Voices event last week with my Youth Advisory Council, bringing together 70 Year 11 and 12 students from 15 schools across the electorate.
Students were invited to deliver 90-second statements on the issues affecting their lives, and I was incredibly impressed by the breadth, depth and thoughtfulness of the discussion. Key topics included access to reproductive health care, domestic and family violence, the social and environmental impacts of AI and the risks of entrenched bias, youth mental health, petrol prices, food waste and homelessness and access to menstrual products.
I will be taking these ideas and perspectives forward in my advocacy and representations in Parliament. A special thank you to the five students from my Youth Advisory Council (Annabelle, Ambrose, Juliet, Molly and Violet) who helped plan the event, to Mosman High School for generously hosting us, and to Raise Mentoring and their Youth Advisory Council for sharing insights during the panel discussion.
International Women’s Day Breakfast
I was delighted to host an International Women’s Day breakfast last week alongside Federal Member for Bradfield, Nicolette Boele, bringing together a thoughtful panel including Craig Foster, Satara Uthayakumaran, and Christine Kininmonth. The discussion explored key issues facing women today, from equality and leadership to representation and opportunity, and highlighted the importance of continued progress toward a more inclusive and equitable society. It also addressed the growing online threats to women, the importance of visibility, and the ongoing crisis of violence against Australian women - particularly Indigenous women and girls - while reinforcing a shared commitment to driving positive change and building a safer, more respectful future.
Out and About
Sustainability Guide
We have recently launched the Warringah Sustainability Guide — a practical resource to help households and local businesses take meaningful steps toward a cleaner, more resilient future.
The guide offers straightforward tips to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, cut electricity and water use, and prepare for the climate challenges ahead. It’s now available to download online. Printed copies are also available for collection from the Electorate Office in Manly or the Community Hub in Neutral Bay.
Grants
Volunteer Grants 2025-6 - Expressions of Interest closing soon
Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 will be available to assist eligible not-for-profit community organisations that rely on volunteers. Eligible not-for-profit community organisations are invited to read the Grant Opportunity Guidelines and then complete and submit an Expression of Interest Form by 5pm, Monday 30th March 2026.
Local Sporting Champions & Para Champions Grants
The LSC and LPC programs provide financial assistance for coaches, officials and competitors participating in state, national or international sporting championships. Successful applicants receive up to $1000 towards the cost of attending their championships. Round 4, 2025-26 closes 30th April 2026
Here to Help
Here are some of the ways my team and I can help:
Seniors Guide
To help seniors and their families navigate the government services and supports available, pick up a hard copy of our guide from the Electorate Office in Manly or the Neutral Bay Community Hub, or download here.
Government Service Support
We can provide support on matters relating to Aged Care Plans, Services Australia enquiries, Immigration and Citizenship matters.
Congratulatory Messages
For a special birthday or wedding anniversary. Further details here.
Be Scam Aware
Awareness is our best protection against scams. The government’s “Little Book of Scams” includes information on how to spot and avoid scams. Feel free to drop in and pick up a copy or download here.
For more information on Zali’s community activities and updates follow @ZaliSteggallMP on Instagram, Facebook, BlueSky, LinkedIn, X or Tiktok.
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