Zali Steggall
Zali Steggall is an Australian independent politician and former Olympic skier. She has been the member for Warringah in the House of Representatives since 2019.
Early life and skiing career
Steggall was born in Sydney in 1967. She began skiing at the age of 10 and quickly rose through the ranks to become one of Australia's top skiers. She competed in three Winter Olympics, in 1988, 1992, and 1994.
Legal career
After retiring from skiing, Steggall studied law at the University of New South Wales. She worked as a lawyer for several years before becoming a barrister. She specialised in environmental law and represented clients in a number of high-profile cases.
Political career
Steggall entered politics in 2019, when she ran as an independent candidate for the seat of Warringah. She defeated the incumbent Liberal MP, Tony Abbott, by a margin of 10.7%.
Policies
Steggall's policies focus on environmental protection, climate change, and integrity in government. She is a strong advocate for renewable energy and has called for a transition to a zero-carbon economy. She is also a vocal critic of the Morrison government's environmental policies.
Personal life
Steggall is married to David Cameron, a former Australian Test cricketer. They have two children.
Controversies
Steggall has been involved in a number of controversies since entering politics. In 2020, she was accused of bullying her staff. She has also been criticised for her comments on climate change and her support for the Black Lives Matter movement.
Assessment
Zali Steggall is a complex and controversial figure. She is a passionate advocate for her beliefs, but she has also been criticised for her lack of experience and her abrasive style. It is too early to say whether she will be a successful politician, but she is certainly one to watch.