Australia politics live: speculation teals may form new party; Gaza flotilla activists arrive home

Allegra Spender and Zali Steggall said to be exploring ways independents can work more closely together. Follow today’s news live

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”

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.

The Albanese government will continue to strengthen Australia’s relationships and work even harder in new and existing coalitions like the Quad as we keep building Australia’s future in an ever less stable world.