The federal election won’t take place until May but the campaign is already heating up.

Ben Fordham has been approached by political volunteers while enjoying a relaxing day at Sydney’s Balmoral Beach.

Several people were walking along the beach handing out ‘Vote Tony Out’ stickers on behalf of Independent candidate Zali Steggall.

When Ben asked why they wanted to vote Tony out he received a stunning reply.

“This bloke looked back and me and said, ‘because he’s a prick’,” recalls Ben.

“It’s not the end of the world but I just guessed that Zali Steggall wouldn’t be all that impressed with one of her volunteers using that kind of language,” says Ben.

Well, it turns out Ms Steggall isn’t impressed with the language but is somehow certain it wasn’t one of her volunteers.

In a statement to Sydney Live (full statement below) she says, “our launch saw a huge turnout from the local community and many people took t-shirts and have been wearing them since.

“Unfortunately, this means not all people wearing t-shirts are volunteers.”

Ben has clarified the situation for Ms Steggall, making it very clear the person was indeed one of her volunteers.

Click PLAY below for the full story

FULL STATEMENT FROM ZALI STEGGALL

“I don’t support that kind of conduct and language, as it does not represent me or our campaign.

Our launch saw a huge turnout from the local community and many people took t-shirts and have been wearing them since.

Unfortunately, this means not all people wearing t-shirts are volunteers.

All of our official volunteers are bound by our code of conduct and we are taking all available steps to ensure a respectful campaign and debate.”

One half of The Big Guns, Graham Richardson, also weighed in on the issue.

“You can’t control them all, and there’s always somebody stupid who says something they shouldn’t say.

“I wouldn’t hold Zali Steggall responsible for it and I’m sure Tony (Abbott) doesn’t.

“You do get people calling you names and I think Tony’s big enough and Aussie enough to be able to cope.”

Click PLAY below to hear the full interview 

RELATED

Olympian launches challenge to Tony Abbott with personal attack