Authorised by A. Hirst, Liberal, Canberra
Ben Smith’s campaign is financially supported by Climate 200, founded by Simon Holmes à Court and defined by the Australian Electoral Commission as a “significant third party.”1
Climate 200 is the main backer behind “Teal” Independents in parliament.
Parliamentary voting records show the eight Teal Independents have voted mostly with the Greens.2
On votes for legislation, the Teal Independents’ voting is even more skewed, voting 77% with the Greens, versus 20% with the Liberals.3
For example, in February 2023, every Teal Independent voted with the Greens against tougher laws to stop criminals getting visas.4
Despite youth crime in Victoria reaching a 15-year high last year, The Independent for Flinders Facebook group which promotes Ben Smith has posted online about the “fallacy of increased youth crime”.5
Teal MPs want higher taxes – including on investments, housing and a higher GST.
Ben Smith has also argued against negative gearing and capital gains tax concessions.6 This would mean higher taxes on investments and housing.
Prior to Australia Day this year, Smith said “I support changing the date…”7
Ben Smith supports the Voice, as did all eight Teal Independent MPs.8
The Independent for Flinders webpage still professes its support for a Voice, Truth and Treaty.9
By contrast, 57% of people in Flinders voted NO.
The next election is expected to be close, with many commentators predicting a “hung parliament” where no party can form majority government.
If that happens, Greens and Independents could decide who forms government.
Despite campaigning on “transparency”, Teal Independents have consistently refused to say who they would back into government if there’s a hung parliament.
The Teals’ voting record shows they overwhelmingly support the Greens and Labor.