I welcome the announcement of humanitarian aid for Gaza. However, while justly condemning the Hamas rocket attacks on Israel, Israel's aggression against Gaza should also be condemned. Although ostensibly provoked by the rocket attacks, Israel's actions makes them pale in comparison. Israel's blockade of Gaza should be lifted. It is inhumane and only serves to fuel further attacks from Hamas. It also should be noted that Hamas won the election in Gaza. Why then do the champions of democracy seek to undermine it?
Margaret Dingle
Norwood SA
6 January 2009
_____________________________Australians have rightly supported the Jewish State of Israel and its existence for the Jewish people. Unfortunately in doing so we have remained mute on the rights of displaced Palestinians, Lebanese and other Arabs. A good friend tells its friend when enough is enough. The Israeli reaction to the Hamas resistance is entirely disproportionate at 100+ to 1 death rate. Such reprisal creates terror and is by that definition a terrorist act.
Dieter & Margot Moeckel
Wonbah via Gin Gin QLD
6 January 2009
_____________________Congratulations on the funding for seniors to use their concession cards in other states. It will certainly be an encouragement for many seniors to get out and about more often and to also visit interstate family. Well Done!
John Hunter
Brisbane QLD
6 January 2009
__________________________Given that the issue of a republic is around at the moment I would like to express the following: I am in favour of a republic but I have a concern about an elected President. To me, the act of electing a President makes the position a political one - Australia already has to many levels of government. Unless someone can convince me to the contrary, I would vote against an elected President. I may have missed it but I have never seen the argument for and against an elected President - perhaps that argument should be had and had now.
Jim Payne
Monash ACT
5 January 2009
____________________ Many of us feel that it is both ridiculous and against the practice of good education to bore children by making them study languages at school that they have absolutely no interest in! Vietnamese children are made to learn Italian. Chinese children are forced to learn Greek. Students and their parents are exasperated but feel helpless. I am a retired German/French teacher, now teaching TESOL, but would advise certain students NOT to study German or French but their parents' language. What can we do to make Education departments understand the waste and disappointment of students and their families when these students are forced to learn a (to them) useless language?
Erika Stahr
Clayton South VIC
4 January 2009
_______________________________________
I object to public money going to prop up Holden unless they design a much better car. The designers so far have provided unsuitable cars. They are designed by youngsters to express their fantasies in their macho designs. The advertising that goes with their designs are fast, furious, sleek and dangerous - or the family people movers. But the car executives have not analysed the market of tomorrow. There is a growing cohort of over-55s who want a car that is easy to get in and out of. A two door car would suffice because this age group needs a car for just one or two people. Their journeys will be mostly short local trips that do not need excessive speed. An electric or solar car would be a more appropriate design for their future needs. So who is going to design their perfect car? Not Holden by the look of it! Poorly designed cars have been produced by manufacturers that refuse to retool their factories to produce cars that are safe, economic and suit future needs.
Mary Jenkins
Fremantle WA
3 January 2009
____________________________
Please do not accept inmates of Guantanamo Bay because President Bush requests you to do so. How can we determine whether or not any of these inmates were in fact, accomplices of terrorists? If any doubt, then do not let them into this country.
Errol Dreyer
Coorparoo QLD
2 January 2009
_______________________________
I urge the Labor leadership to take strong action to prevent the invasion of Gaza after the lethal bombing raids; to stop the humanitarian crisis that is developing in that region; and broker a peace and cease fire between the parties. Urgent action is needed now.
Audrey Davies
Rosanna VIC
1 January 2009
____________________ I'd like to thank the Government on behalf of all those who received the bonus for pensioners and others. I hope the money will be well spent and not wasted. But I still feel the money could have gone to helping them obtain solar hot water heating. When I see expensive new homes go up on the beachfront, I wonder where there solar systems are? I think if people have that sort of money, it should be law that they must install solar systems.
Walter Christy
Shearwater TAS
31 December 2009
__________________________
Among books noted on your website, I suggest including America's Suicidal Statecraft: The Self-destruction of a Superpower. Published in November 2006, this book, by an Australian author and former Australian diplomat, predicts with extraordinary accuracy the global financial and economic trauma we are experiencing today. The book is available on Amazon.
James Cumes
Canberra ACT
30 December 2009
____________________
Does the car industry need the type of response it is being given, or is there a better way? The world is awash with too many unsold new cars. Manufacturing far exceeds sales. The French have attacked the problem from the other end - by giving the buyer a thousand Euros to buy a car, if their car is ten years old. This way they get the sales and keep the jobs. No sales equals no jobs.
Rosemary Ross
Gladstone QLD
29 December 2009
______________________________________
I'm wondering why the banks or mortgagors would want to reposes homes that are worth substantially less than when the loan was made. They now have the task of selling the property and trying to recover their losses from the mortgagee. It would be much simpler to make an arrangement whereby the mortgagee would be allowed to stay on the property and pay either the interest on the loan or an agreed sum as rent. This would enable the unfortunate family to have a roof over their head and if times improved they may be able to resume paying off the property or make a new deal with the mortgagor. I understand that some banks in Europe make arrangements whereby the occupiers pay only the interest on the loan and often never expect to actually own the house but they have some rights to the property and they can pass it on to their children under the same terms. Surely some of our lending institutions could consider this as an alternative to throwing families out onto the street.
Richard Scotte
Yarralumla ACT
24 December 2008
__________________________
To reduce homelessness, the government should make those already in
public housing accountable to work towards changing their circumstances. The
overwhelming majority of those in public housing are on welfare, and mutual
obligation should be extended to public housing.
There are many who don't choose to be on benefits, like the disabled and
mentally ill, and I sympathize with them. But many do choose to be on benefits
and many are quite able to work and it those people who deny genuine people in
need.
What is wrong with expecting able bodied people to help themselves
within reasonable timeframes and extending that to public housing so that there
is public housing available for those in immediate and real need?
Welfare like public housing should be there for those in genuine need; it should not be a lifestyle choice.
Michael Pitt
Kapunda SA
23 December 2008
___________________________Good job on the homeless plan Labor! You’re damn right we can do better! A 20 year wait for public housing is out of control. Even if you go on a priority list, you don’t have 3 years to wait after life hasn't worked out for you. So many people are practically homeless too, even if they are not rough sleeping it. Rent is out of control. How does someone on Centrelink get 4 weeks rent and 4 weeks bond together just to move in? The free market will never take care of health care, housing and other basic needs. The government must force its hand. I give kudos to Labor for doing more for the poor halfway into your first term than Howard did his whole time in office. People are quick to point the finger when something goes wrong but they never give praise when it's due. So well done for throwing some real money at the problem.
Mr Boom
Canberra ACT
22 December 2008
____________________________
I would love to see the idea of having mobile hospitals to cover main or country areas in case of an emergency. With all the state of art technology, this would help to solve the many problems we seem to have in our hospitals. I think this idea would be very helpful, especially for our seniors and others who are in need of any kind of health emergency.
Dennis Toll
Eastgardens NSW
21 December 2008
_________________________With the improvement to the railways resulting from all the infrastructure spending, I hope we can expect a return to goods being carried by rail rather than road transport and an upgrade of rail passenger services. This would cut a lot of carbon production.
John Hunter
Brisbane QLD
20 December 2008
___________________________One thing about solar energy: it is better to install a solar hot water system as there is a bigger return on reducing the power bill. Solar hot water one gets up to 90% reduction off the hot water electricity tariff. With solar panels, most people who consider this can only afford a 1 KW system that only reduces the average home electricity bill by about 13% - and it's a big outlay. If one considers the next 1.5 KW or even more kilo watts, the outlay jumps considerably.
Walter Christy
Sherwater TAS
19 December 2008
_____________________________Why these days are we driving dangerous plastic vehicles? We used to have steel bumper bars a few years ago. It is my belief that any vehicle manufacturer that will install steel bumpers would attract many sales. And imagine the lives and personal injuries that would be saved!
Alfred Jones
Alexandra Hills QLD
18 December 2008
_________________________Thanks to Federal Labor for the much needed money for the Pensioners. Congratulations on this never-before heard of large payment in a time of need. Could you ever imagine the "Coalition" doing this for the people ? Don't think so! It is evident why the "federal opposition" is falling over - no policies; just anti every Labor innovation. To Mr Turnbull I say: Let us, the Australian people, hear your policies - not just your rhetoric !
Kevin Grose
Baffle Creek QLD
17 December 2008
_________________________I would like to thank Kevin Rudd's Government very much for my extra payment this Christmas, as I only get a W/A. I never got any thing from the Howard Government, so thank you once again. Merry Christmas.
Maureen Smith
Berri SA
17 December 2008
____________________ I must say thank you very very much for the $1400. It has made my life a little bit happier. Malcolm Turnbull says tax cuts would have been better than giving us disability pensioners money. Typical; looking after the rich again. Also, if tax cuts were given it would be ongoing year after year, and that won't help kick start the economy.
Barry Morgan
Cairns QLD
16 December 2008
_______________________________I wish to express my appreciation as a single Pensioner for my new dishwasher and front load washing machine. Whilst expressing my appreciation, the amount paid to Pensioners in the 21st.Century is approximately 50% of the amount needed to survive with dignity - acknowledging we are no longer young and fit. Many Pensioners still have a mortgage or are paying increasing rents.
Wayne Hart
Nollamara WA
15 December 2008
____________________ When considering infrastructure programs, consider also a full Pacific Hwy upgrade through NSW with a natural gas pipeline running side by side as part of the construction. This will fix our dangerous and antiquated highway system and provide clean natural gas for industry, domestic and automotive applications. This will decrease our carbon footprint while employing thousands of Australians. The government should reap the benefit of selling this gas to everyone who wants it.
Robert Costa
Maclean NSW
14 December 2008
__________________________Please invest in recycled water, subsidies for tanks in businesses and homes, and education campaigns about the previous two points rather than desalination plants. Desal plants add to our greenhouse woes and have an undetermined effect on the sea water environment in proximity to the plants.
Jeff McLean
Airport West VIC
14 December 2008
____________________________Why does it not surprise me that the Libs & co block vitally important legislation such as the dental health program? Because they never consider the battlers - never have and never will. To the Rudd Government I say: Please keep up the good work that you have started, never forgetting that it's the people that count as much as the big end of town. As a pensioner may I sincerely thank your team for giving us a lift at this trying time.
Alfred Clark
Devonport TAS
13 December 2008
_______________________________It baffles me as to how the Libs and Nats can keep blocking something that is desperately needed by so many Australians (dental). They are so out of touch with the needs of us Aussies they are like some alien sect. I'm an ordinary Australian and amongst the many ordinary Australians I know dental is an extremely important issue. The Opposition are just being obstinate and sore losers and, as a result, we're being disadvantaged.
Bran Jenkin
Somerset TAS
13 December 2008
____________________ Thank you Mr Rudd and you kind thoughts towards people like me - a Carer for my severely intellectually disabled son. This nice gesture of 1000.00 dollars. I won't ever forget this.
Kathleen Rutledge
Paralowie SA
12 December 2008
_________________________________Thank you Kevin Rudd. Because of you helping us (people with disability), you have saved my Christmas for 2008. We know things are grim. But we'll all get back on our feet thanks to you and the Labor Party. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year :)
Leon Watson
Parramatta NSW
12 December 2008
____________________ Kevin, thank you for giving me a pay rise a few months ago. It really helped me buy a computer and pay for the monthly payments on the internet. Then on top of that you gave us $1400 bang on Xmas. I must admit I used to be a swing voter but from now on I will always vote for Labor. You are going to go down as one of the great PMs of all time; mark my words.
Jim McDermott
Beaconsfield WA
12 December 2008
____________________ I am pleased that the Rudd Government is so involved in various world conferences with the leaders of so many countries. I am especially pleased now to hear that the treaty to ban the use of Cluster Bombs has at last been signed by Australia, and that we are involved in the clearing of areas in some of the countries were they are destroying the lives of so many people.
Colin Litchfield
Unley SA
10 December 2008
_________________________I would like to thank the Rudd Govt for the $1400 one-off payment. For the 1st time in 13 years I will be able to buy Christmas food. To have a mince pie, turkey, vegies and Xmas Pud makes my mouth water. People are too quick to complain but not many give compliments. Thank you again and hope every one of you have a very happy Christmas and I know you will look after us in the New Year 2009.
Linda Wood
Heathridge WA
9 December 2008
____________________________Despite the media trying to bring Mr Rudd into some sort of media disrepute over his 'excessive' traveling I feel he is about the best PM this country has had for a very long time. Mr Rudd has taken a bold step in using some of the surplus to prove an economic theory of the multiplier effect to boost national spending which, I believe, is something John Howard would never have done. I believe if Mr Rudd isn't seduced by the trappings of office as many before him appear to have then I feel he will be positively remembered as a true Australian statesman politician committed to bettering the nation as a whole.
Edmund Rogers
Guildford NSW
8 December 2008
_________________________________
I hope the new policy "Code of Conduct on body image" announced by Kate Ellis will look at body image issues affecting young men? Research has shown that many young men in Australia are affecting by body image issues, and not just young women.Greg Millan
Waratah NSW
8 December 2008
______________________________
Regarding the 'Code of conduct on body image', I just hope that one of the unintended consequences of this is that we do not by default glorify unhealthy eating choices, and that proper criticism of the overweight epidemic is not stifled. We should not glorify nor encourage unhealthy eating habits by making oversize models and clothing acceptable. Showing oversize models and actors makes being that way socially acceptable and encourages unhealthy eating choices.
Peter Davidson
Wattle Grove WA
8 December 2008.
______________________________
I wonder if it is possible to make solar panels mandatory on all new dwellings? It seems to be to be the way to go to help the environment. We are spending a lot of money on wind farms, which is the right thing to do, but if every home could be nearly supportive of its own power intake it would be an enormous help. It would of course, add to the cost of the dwellings, but a government subsidy could be a great help.
Iris Ashton
Kallangur QLD
7 December 2008
_______________________________
I have been informed that there is another planned massacre (“management”) of 40 kangaroos in Canberra and others in Sydney. Surely the mass killings of over 500 kangaroos in Canberra earlier this year is enough of the killing sprees! Kangaroos are perfectly adapted to Australian climate and conditions -their needs are frugal and they have existed and co-evolved with other native species for millions of years. Already we are world famous for killing off wildlife - our extinction rate is abysmal. Our kangaroos are iconic animals and are recognised overseas as symbols of Australia. Please respect them and stop destroying their habitat.
Vivienne Ortega
Heidleberg Heights VIC
6 December 2008
____________________________________
Addressing climate change is far, far more important to me than the current obsession with economic issues. I am disappointed that Australia has so far failed to capitalize and invest in any significant way in our nation's skills and capacity in the fields of solar and alternative energy research and development. Despite being a car driver and reliant on diesel transported food and goods, I will support any initiatives that address the national addiction to fossil fueled internal combustion engines.
Philip Hewett
East Gosford NSW
6 December 2008
________________________I attended a function hosted by the Jewish Community Council at the Victorian Parliament in honour of the late William Cooper. The function commemorated the 70th anniversary of the walk from Fitzroy to the Nazi German Embassy in South Melbourne on the 6th December 1938 by Aboriginal human rights activists led by William Cooper to deliver a protest at the treatment of Jewish people in Germany following the night of breaking glass. At a time when Aboriginal Australians were the victims of vile racism in their own land, William Cooper spoke up about the atrocities being visited upon the Jewish citizens of Germany. This is a man who deserves to be a national hero. Not since I was privileged to witness to Welcome to Country at Federal Parliament in February of this year have I felt so moved by a public ceremony.
Lorie Werner
Box Hill South VIC
5 December 2008
_________________________I was appalled to read that Warwick Marsh has been dumped as a men's health ambassador. He is exactly the sort of man we need advocating mens' health. I was particularly disturbed that the dumping was because of his association with the publication Gender Matters. He has been discriminated against on the grounds that he believes homosexual activity is not only morally wrong but unhealthy and unnatural. I too hold the same values.
Steve Flanagan
Bendigo VIC
5 December 2008
___________________________In the UK, a national lottery system is in place to raise funds for the upcoming 2012 Olympic Games to be held in London. I believe a similar system could be set up here to fund local and national infrastructure projects. This would benefit the community and help stimulate the economy by creating jobs much as the governments local council infrastructure package aims to do.
Xavier Ricketts
Tweed Heads NSW
5 December 2008
______________________On the Qantas merger issue, well done to the Government for not hesitating in speaking up in defence of Australian workers jobs. All too often politicians wait to see the popular view before committing, instead of taking the lead. Well done in representing the interests of your constituents.
Bonnie Murphy
Wellington Point
QLD 4 December 2008
____________________ Thank you Mr Rudd, Mr Swan & Ms Roxon for realising the shortfall that has put the public health system into crisis. The Coalition held back money for so many years to create the desperate situation we now find we are in.
Margaret Morgan
Kempsey NSW
4 December 2008
____________________ I think the Government might look at helping the car industry by making it possible for pensioners, low-income families and the unemployed to obtain a new locally built car at cost from the manufacturers. The cars would be financed by the state at low interest rates to cover costs, with repayments via Centerlink deductions. Jobs would be saved and the global pollution problem assisted by getting rid of the old cars.
Juergen Jannke
Ferntree Gully VIC
4 December 2008
____________________ Thank you for the much needed funding boost to hospitals! About damn time! You only need to step into a public hospital to realise how much the Howard Government's inaction in key areas has really put Australia behind the 8-ball. Thanks to the ALP for taking decisive action, even in the midst of a financial crisis that would have the Liberal party sitting on their hands and making more excuses.
Jay Sullivan
Canberra ACT
3 December 2008
___________________________Well done to the Rudd Team. They have achieved so much in just 12 months in Government - despite what the press may say (or not!). It is good to see that they are not afraid to follow the Keynesian economic theory and, if necessary, borrow & spend funds on keeping the economy turning. Many commentators seems to have a "hang up" about government deficits when economic theory - and reality - indicates they are an appropriate action. Friedman isn't the "gospel", and countries like the US with trillion $ public debts are hardly vibrant examples of the "pure capitalist" system old Milton (Friedman) believes in!
Deane Mitchell
Happy Valley SA
3 December 2008
__________________________The Rudd Government's $42.7 million National Education Agreement is long over-due - given the Howard government neglected education for 10 years!
Teresa van Lieshout
Fremantle WA
2 December 2008
_____________________________I've been a teacher for 12 years. Most educational problems exist in two areas; teachers don't have enough authority over student discipline, and have no authority or budget to obtain resources for use in the teaching process. Authority to manage student behaviour and control of resourcing is given to the wrong people, administrators and principals, who don't work in the classroom. The result has been a decline in academic & behaviour standards, and teacher retention.
Teresa van Lieshout
Femantle WA
5 December 2008
__________________________I am an electrician working in remote Cape York. I am concerned that fuel price drops are not being passed on. Cairns price is around $1.05 , we are paying $2.25. That is a difference of more than 100%. We expect to pay more but this is not justified.
Craig Dixon
Seisia QLD
2 December 2008
_______________________________I wish to congratulate the Rudd Government on its speedy reaction to the current financial crisis. However they could do more in order to help by (in conjunction with petrol companies) reducing the price of diesel which in turn would reduce the price of goods at retail outlets. Most goods are transported by vehicles using diesel, and diesel is cheaper to produce than refined petrol.
Thomas Christou
Lara VIC
2 December 2008
______________________________I am a pensioner and happy to see that more money is going to hospitals and health care, because health is the most important after all. Extra money, specially at Christmas time is also welcome, so thank you for the job well done so far! Keep that focus on!
Anna Karmio
Woodstock NSW
1 December 2008
__________________________________How absolutely wonderful to finally have a government that is concerned that all Australian people live healthier, wealthier, freer and more educated lives. A government who says what it is going to do and after proper consultation to get everything right, goes ahead and does it. I am very proud to be an Australian and to be part of the Labor party.
Iris Ashton
Kallangur QLD
1 December 2008
______________________________The best way to attract quality candidates to teaching is to improve conditions and pay. I love having ex-students contact me and tell me about their adult lives but it's demoralising to learn that, in many cases, their starting salary is more than my exit/retirement salary. Another area that needs to be revisited, is the Advanced Skills Teacher Scheme whereby talented teachers can stay in the classroom (and be suitably remunerated) rather than being promoted into administration and out of the classroom. Beginning teachers will learn more from working with "professional" peers than any other method.
Bob Caves
Bermagui NSW
1 December 2008
_____________________________________The new plans to attract high quality graduates into the teaching profession could work well if makes provision to seek out people who are genuinely interested in teaching. However, what's to say that just because someone has gained really good results in their chosen field of study that they have the gift of teaching or a heart to communicate with young people. The government should concentrate on raising the profile of teachers and making the wider population see what a valuable part of being a successful nation their job is.
Emma Lynn
Port Pirie SA
30 November 2008
____________________ Well done to Labor for all the new Masters courses that have been added to the eligibility for financial assistance. I spent 4 years battling through my Masters degree while working, and it's really great to see that people now studying my course won't have to do the same. Keep up the good work.
Emily Braithwaite
Bacchus Marsh VIC
29 November 2008
____________________________Please remember that having high standards for teaching is wonderful, but they may not have the heart to teach Autistic or other disability kids. Take in the teachers with that ability, because that quality is the first base with those kids. We need more special schools for the disabled.
Betty Slatyer
Carlton NSW
29 November 2008
____________________
The on-going incursion by the American evangelical religious right into Australian politics, and also our once proud public education system, is disquietening to say the very least. We should not rest until this incursion is broken and nullified. Secular government should be the aim, else we sink further into the intellectual abyss of superstition and ignorance.
Peter Williams
Mount Hutton NSW
28 November 2008
__________________________________Congratulations Chris Evans for allowing the German doctor and family to remain in Australia! But I don't agree with the decision to put small fish before the welfare of farmers near Bothwell, Tasmania.
Cynthia Christian
Cambridge TAS
28 November 2008
______________________________Thank you Kevin Rudd and your team for having the guts to identify areas of need for spending and following through with your election promises. I feel reassured that the Labor Party will look after ordinary Australians like me.
Jennifer Ishamkovich
Sale VIC
27 November 2008
____________________________
My feedback is in regard to my bank not passing on interest rate cuts. The explanation I was given was that my loan was a product the bank no longer sold and that they wanted me to re-write my loan to a newer style loan. I explained that it was an old product because I have been a long standing customer with the bank. I believe the present government represents Middle Australians and projects its concern for struggling families and the right for a fair go. Yet the banks are behaving in this unethical way - people have struggled through the high interest rate increases and now are denied the decreases.
Jeanine Coleman
Leschenault WA
27 November 2008
____________________________I think it's time the community was reminded that Coalition governments are also good at passing huge deficits to incoming governments - the Fraser government with Howard as Treasurer left a massive deficit without world economy help.
Fred McInerney
Karuah NSW
27 November 2008
____________________ With the way the Opposition have been carrying in both houses, thank god they were not elected last year. Fancy blaming Labor for the Global Meltdown! Turnbull's reply in parliament was a disgrace he could have reduced his talk by 21 minutes simply by saying I hate Kevin Rudd and I hate the high regard Australians have for him.
Hal Crossing
Happy Valley SA
27 November 2008
_______________________________Kevin Rudd "goes overseas to much" - so says the press, and I just want to respond to this statement! If our PM needs to go overseas a lot, then I see that he is doing his job properly. We are not just an island in the South Pacific, isolated and not communicating with other countries. We are a nation that is very much a part of the global community and if our PM need to go overseas to negotiate on our behalf, then I say good on you Kevin Rudd; it is about time we got a Prime Minister that takes an active part in our government on an international scale. The news media are having a real hard time digging up any sort dirt on our Prime Minister and I find that refreshing! They try to twist events against our PM and it is not working. Go for it Kevin!
Bill Ray
Cooranbong NSW
26 November 2008
___________________________With the recent storm damage in Queensland and the lifting of house rooves, I suggest this could be fixed simply by incorporating some simple changes to the building codes in the States. For example, simply fitting saddles to the roofing screws would stop them pulling through the tin sheets, as would increasing the roofing iron thickness and strapping the rafters to the building frame. Maybe adopt Darwin's building code as the southern gales reach cyclone wind speeds and occur more often than cyclones. If as predicted these events are going to get worse due to global warming, action needs to be taken now.
Daniel Thatcher
Howard Springs NT
26 November 2008
_____________________________Pleased to hear that there will be a referendum on Australia going republic. I am sure New Zealand will follow.
Mike Rodwell
Richmond, New Zealand
25 November 2008
_________________________Regarding Julia Gillard's comments about improving the quality of teaching: the teaching profession needs to be uplifted to attract quality people to it. Quality training is wasted on people who can't teach. They don't reflect upon their practice, they don't take on board any of the training they are given and so more taxpayer dollars are wasted on dullards. And I'm a teacher/educational leader who is sick of mediocrity!
Moira Neagle
Millicent SA
25 November 2008
__________________________While I was pleased to see the Government provide changes to the laws to give same sex couples equal rights in many areas previously denied, it should have been followed up by the discussion on rights for total equality. I am in a heterosexual marriage and ashamed that my country denies this basic human right to same sex couples. It is a contradiction to the values I teach my children of equality.
Nicole Holland
Perth WA
25 November 2008
____________________________Watching the recent US election, and particularly the outpouring of joy expressed by so many Americans at the outcome, caused me to recall how I felt when Labor won the 2007 election. I felt hope for the future of our country for the first time in many years- hope that we would be acting on climate change and investing in a green economy; hope that the most vulnerable in our community would be catered for more compassionately and comprehensively by government. I felt relief that Australia was going to return to the moral and legal practices we once adopted in treating asylum seekers and alleged terrorists. And I felt confidence that the Rudd government would govern wisely and with the best interests of the country at heart. Thanks, Kevin.
Grainne O'Donovan
Mount Pleasant WA
24 November 2008
__________________________Kevin Rudd has done a fantastic job leading his party and the country over the last 12 months. He has breathed fresh air into the country and I feel very secure having him as PM. I love that he can relate well to all sectors of the community. He is a LEGEND.
Suzy Ross
Bendigo VIC
24 November 2008
__________________________Congratulations on Labor's first year achievements. I am extremely pleased and proud.
Nicole Connolly
Kingscliff NSW
24 November 2008
_____________________One year on and it's a joy to see the change in Australia's morale. We have a government which is positive in its approach to the role and task of government. How much a contrast between active leadership now, on both the national and the international stage, with creative policies and inspirational action; and the miserable Howard years of laissez-faire, denial, and Patrick's Dogs. Just do more - do it better, especially in restoring workers' rights. Thanks. Happy Birthday!
Marie Newton
Flinders VIC
24 November 2008
_________________________Brilliant Job, congratulations!
James Wasson
Rutherford NSW
24 November 2008
___________________________Congratulations. It's choice to see the good being achieved and I am pound of what has been done. Kevin has been proactive and positive and I am grateful for that. Thank you. And wishing you well.
Carol McCormick
Mount Colah NSW
24 November 2008
________________________Congratulations on a great 12 months! A hard working and dedicated team getting things done is exactly what we need in government. People ought to understand that the neglect the country suffered with the previous government can't be turned around in a few months. The government must get the message across that things are going as planned and as best they can, and to count our blessings not whinge so much. Not everything can happen at once. Kevin (I am sure he wouldn't mind the familiarity) is doing a fantastic job - I doubt anyone could hold a candle to him.
Michelle Bowden
Brisbane QLD
24 November 2008
___________________________I am happy with what the Government and the PM are doing, and trying to do. Now where can I get a Poncho like that - without becoming the PM?
Kevin Russell
Goolwa SA
24 November 2008
__________________________I want to see the ABC Learning Centres nationalised. Run by the people for the people. This has become an essential service today as most women are compelled to join the workforce to supplement the household budget. The government has subsidised the fees for these centres with their tax benefit rebates in the past. I think all Australians would be prepared for part of our taxes continuing to subsidise this essential service if they were run as 'not for profit organisations'.
Kerrie Lay
Toongabbie NSW
23 November 2008
______________________________With regards to our Brisbane transport problems, I think the government should spend money on promoting cycling to/from work, paint bike lanes on more roads, and sponsor the construction of multi-level inner city shower & bike parking facilities that are secure. Like paying for bus/train travel, people could pay a fee for locker space, a shower & bike security. Increased cycling would reduce the countries obese statistics help our environment, reduce the congestion on our current roads and public transport systems.
David Stringfellow
Brisbane QLD
22 November 2008
________________________I am sick of the ABC's Liberal/National Party bias. The Howard Years, funded by taxpayers, was a way to promote the Howard Government. And earlier in the year, the ABC allowed Malcolm Turnbull a full hour to sell himself on TV. Labor would never be given that opportunity. I believe the ABC is infiltrated with Liberal supporters and this is very wrong.
Barry O'Brien
Clontarf QLD
21 November 2008
______________________________Like breath of fresh air are the current announcements of Federal Labor, decisions that strike at the heart of grass root Australians. The $300 million to Local Governments,(from someone who continually monitors Local Government, here's hoping the money is spent in the spirit it has been given). Well done Kevin, protection to the HMAS Sydney also; the list goes on. Though we do not agree with all of the initiatives, Bravo Zulu Mr Rudd & the Cabinet !
Kevin Grose
Baffle Creek QLD
20 November 2008
__________________________Congratulations to the Federal Government on the reasonable funding for local government infrastructure. This ought to establish more work and also lead to permanent jobs.
Chris White
Turner ACT
20 November 2008
___________________________It is interesting to see the Federal Government's transplant organ donation incentive. I am on kidney dialysis and, to date, have not even been able to get on to the transplant list here in Queensland. I am hoping that this incentive will allow me to be considered for the transplant list.
Markham Ryland
Kallangur QLD
19 November 2008
_________________________________I think it is a disgrace that the Federal Opposition has blocked the Fuelwatch, as I know from friends in WA that it does work. Shame on the Liberals. But it does not surprise me.
Moira Morgan
Kilsyth VIC
18 November 2008
____________________________Regarding the matter of greenhouse emissions and the campaign to reduce house hold power consumption, it beggars belief that anyone would seriously consider that frugal domestic consumption will achieve anything. The business community continues to schedule night sport and bands and has even suggested a GP race - the power requirements for such events are enormous. Any serious interest in power consumption reduction demands attention in this area. We did survive on daylight activities in the past we can do it again.
Peter Faux
Burrum Heads QLD
18 November 2008
____________________ The world is breathing a sigh of relief as they welcome Barak Obama to the White House. I think Australia is breathing a sigh of relief that we have Kevin Rudd, Julia Gillard,Wayne Swan and the Labor team. There are so many issues to deal with now and these are such hard times for the average person. I have not received the full rate cuts from the bank, although I received the full rate rises from them very timely as the interest rates went up. I am wondering what is happening for the poor people who have just bought homes and have fixed interest rates. Shouldn't the banks show some mercy seeing they were the cause of this problem. It's just an idea but it seems so fair to me.
Janet Kueng
Howard QLD
17 November 2008
____________________________I've been part of the union campaign for a universal paid parental leave scheme. I welcomed the Productivity Commission's draft report as an important first step in getting a paid parental leave scheme we can be proud of in Australia. However, I've been very concerned to hear comments that paid parental leave may drop off the list of priorities for the 2009 budget due to the economic crisis. The government is implementing a series of other measures to stimulate the economy - which is exactly what paid parental leave would do. We've waited long enough for a paid parental leave scheme!
Sarah Gardner
Redfern NSW
17 November 2008
_____________________________I am most concerned that the current target for control of greenhouse gas emission by 2020 is under threat in the upcoming debate. We need to have a minimum target of 30%. Clean energy please.
Jennifer Whichello
Hazelbrook NSW
17 November 2008
_________________________I know it is a legacy of the previous government, but while the discrimination against people over 30 with no medical insurance continues, they won't go back. Demolish the health insurance life time cover extra charges for people over 30 and they might actually go back into the medical funds. Government doesn't discriminate against age in the workforce, yet it certainly does in this case. I am lucky I was born in the UK, and if I have a terminal illness, I will go back there.
Ian Linwood
Peachester QLD
16 November 2008
____________________ We are really faced with a ticking time bomb, when you consider what is happening to the world, not so much financially but the environment and still we do not learn. The world is clearing forest at alarming rates. These forests help to suck up carbons but we prefer to reduce carbon production by containing industry outputs, and carbon emissions from cars. Replacement tree plantations do nothing for the wildlife as the basics of wildlife is diversity, and in destroying that we destroy ourselves as we are destroying a balance. What we have done in producing carbons, poising the sea, removing forest have all had a impact on the food chain. And when the food shortages become worse, countries will only push their boundaries, leading to more disaster.
Walter Christy
Shearwater TAS
16 November 2008
____________________________
Regarding the Lord's Prayer being spoken at the beginning of a parliamentary session - I think that's not right. I'm a Catholic, but believe strongly in a separation of church and state. Yes, people have their beliefs and they will always affect their decisions, but to have one religion dominating in such a way is wrong and can't be representative of the diverse Australian community.
Shauna Glenough
Perth WA
15 November 2008
____________________ Carbon trading is a necessary idea but it will only work if there are companies that already have credits to sell. Will ordinary Aussies who recycle, put in water tanks, make their homes more energy efficient get credits for their individual efforts? To make this truly work, you have to start a cultural meme that includes everyone. Easy to say, hard to do but I know that ordinary Aussies are already forging ahead in our own small ways because we can /see/ that this is real. Hopefully once companies see that the carbon scheme is real they'll stop sitting on their hands and wasting money on lobbying and get stuck into /doing/ something.
Andrea Flory
Warrandyte VIC
15 November 2008
______________________________I lived in WA for 23 years and believe I saved hundreds of dollars through the WA Fuelwatch scheme. I received an email twice per day advising me of the price of fuel within ten kilometres of home. Often the prices would vary by up to ten or twelve cents per litre. To fill my car took usually 70 litres so you can assess the impact quite easily. And when I went on a country trip, I could log in and find where was the best place to fill up along the way. This scheme is the only true way that competition among the oil companies can be generated. The Senate's defeat of the Rudd Government's Fuelwatch bill was a sad day for Australian motorists outside WA.
Ian Henderson
Holt ACT
14 November 2008
______________________________Trees do a great job collecting and recycling CO2 but the oceans are even better. Cool the oceans and they will absorb more CO2 than the forests could do in the same period. By adding iron filings to the oceans, phytoplankton grow and they cool the ocean and the oceans absorbs CO2. Te bi-product is Oxygen back to the atmosphere, and that can't be bad!
John Hannon
Thuringowa QLD
14 November 2008
_____________________________A big thumbs up to Stephen Smith & friends for boosting aid to the Congo! Fantastic! Please keep going to our Millennium Goal of 0.7% GNI in aid to our neighbours who need it. I will be encouraging my school and friends to donate $7 out of the $1000 Mr Rudd is kindly giving each child in December to local or overseas aid projects. Much as I appreciate the extra money to pay bills & (public) school fees, I'd rather see it go to people who need it more than me - I have food on the table & medical care & a home. Thanks for the good work, keep it up!
Alison Cutter
Kew VIC
14 November 2008
____________________ I refer to the proposed Australia wide OSH Act to replace the various State and Territory OSH Acts. As an OSH practitioner, I think it is an Idea whose time has come. Thank goodness we have a Labor Federal Government guiding this process - the Howard Liberal Government's attempt would have resulted in less workplace safety law, and hence less protection, for Austrailan employees. Keep OSH law strong - protect your right to a safe workplace.
Bruce Campbell
Perth WA
13 November 2008
____________________
Malcolm Turnbull's attacks on Prime Minister Rudd are worse than the alleged leak. By perpeputating the leak as published here and in America, he is drawing world wide attention to something that would have blown over in a day. Surely an Opposition Leader cannot be so naive that he thinks he can say anything just to score points! By opening his mouth and keeping it open he is causing far more mischief for the people of this country.
Name Withheld
Kariong NSW
13 November 2008
_____________________________Perhaps some feasibility studies could be done on floating a large array of solar collecters on Warragamba Dam? They would reduce evaporation and connect straight into the electricity grid via the hydro-electric station, which I imagine is running at negligible levels
Keith Ashdown
Warrimoo NSW
13 November 2008
____________________
I am sickened by the arrogance and
front of Malcolm Turnbull presenting himself as 'the financial guru'. Surely we
all remember it was the Howard government's privatisation of public services
that has exacerbated our position in housing affordability and in education - and
of course in child care, which was transferred to heavily subsidised entrepreneurs who
became overnight millionaires.
Betty Birskys
Kawana QLD
12 November 2008
_____________________________
Great work guys...keep it up. Ignore Malcolm Turnbull - he has simply no idea about Middle Australia.
Judy Marcic
Argenton NSW
12 November 2008
_____________________________I believe the way forward for Australia is to invest in the bush. Try to get the people out of cities and form new cities in the country areas or spread the load of population across country areas. I live in a small country town called Eidsvold in Queensland. We are struggling because of shrinking population. We have a good lifestyle and we have vacant homes for people to live and yet there are homeless people in cities. We have people struggling to buy homes in the cities and you can buy a home under $150,000 in Eidsvold. That is my solution to a whole gambit of problems in Australia.
Noel Thompson
Eidsvold QLD
11 November 2008
______________________________I think it is time that we stop the corporate growth of child care. The care and education of children has no place on the stock exchange. ABC centres should be returned to the community and managed by the community. They are the ones that know what they want. No community, not for profit centre has ever cost the taxpayer $22 million. It is time to say that child care should not be for profit, especially as the government has been subsidising these profits through Child Care Benefit.
Jeremy Pook
Seaton SA
11 November 2008
_________________________________Stuart pianos (made in Newcastle) are internationally accepted as world-class and sell world-wide. The previous Liberal government bought Steinways for their embassies despite Stuart pianos being considered equivalent or better in musical circles. I could never understand why. I own a Stuart piano but have no other connection to the business. I do support however excellence which is why I bought a Stuart rather than a Steinway myself. I'd like the government to consider supporting this innovative and excellent Australian company, and order Stuart pianos for important venues.
Sandy Libling
Centennial Park NSW
10 November 2008
________________________I have serious concerns about the proposed mandatory internet filtering
initiative. Given the importance the Government has attached to modernising the
broadband network, pursuing a policy that can only slow down and increase the
costs of home internet access seems misguided. Australian households are
diverse, and most do not have young children, so mandating a one-size-fits-all
clean feed approach will not serve the public well. Also, given the amount of internet
content available, the Government will never be able to classify it all and
filters will always result in an unacceptable level of over-blocking.
Dean Allen
Trott Park SA
10 November 2008
________________________________ Re the Home Owners Grant, why not give $14,000 to those who want to buy property in the city (eg, Sydney region) and $21,000 who buy property in a rural township. It's called depopulation of major cities. This would assist in reduction of traffic, pollution, and perhaps crime from overcrowding.
Rhondda Hart
_____________________________
Michael Angel
___________________________
Edith Cleland
_____________________________
I am like most people in our local area - we have a mortgage and are doing or best to cover the cost of this mortgage. I understand the importance of banks maintaining healthy business profits but I think they should accept some reduction in profits and pass on the full interest rate cuts. We are all feeling the pain due to the current economic crisis that was developed by the financial sector, so it should only be fair that they accept some of the pain as well.
Peter O'Reilly
_______________________________
I am writing to express my concern about the closure of the Academy of Music in South Melbourne. We have gained much benefit from this facility which has enabled young performers to remain in Australia for a period of intense study in performance skills. We have excellent musicians and perfoming centres in Australia and have made great advances in these areas over the last 15 years or so. Please reconsider the decision to close the Acadamy.
Prue Brown
____________________
While it is true that children should not be exposed to violent or pornographic content on the internet, there is other more efficient and less expensive ways to do this that the proposed internet filtering. Educating parents on how to keep their children safe on the internet would do wonders. Also, making sure to advertise home based internet filtering (such as the software used in the current NetAlert scheme) would benefit families without slowing down Australia's internet, breaking banking encryptions and taking away civil liberties.
Liam O'Sullivan
___________________________
Wonderful result, Obama the new President elect of the US. George Bush of course with his popularity rating of around 20% will not apologise for the enemies he has created for his country by attacking and threatening countries without justification and causing of hundreds of thousands of civilian deaths. And John Howard of course will not hand back the several medals awarded to him by Israel and apologise to all Australians for joining in the Bush wars and causing our country to have enemies we did not have before.
Frank Crichlow
__________________________
Let's hear positive talk about the economy instead of this constant gloom and doom talk, grim news that we seem to be hearing day in and day out . Focus on the positives, not the negatives, and then the community picks up on this and acts more positively too. Instead of seeing the glass half empty, why not see it more as the glass half full, then things will get better. Things are pretty good out there so stop dwelling on the negatives so much! The media is doing this as well and this just causes problems.
Sue Fisher
_________________________
I would like to say a hearty thank-you to the Rudd Government for the proposed inclusion of iodine in bread products. As someone who has had thyroid problems and faces removal of some of it, it is very important for me to have sufficient iodine and a very welcome move. Keep up the good work.
Anne Every
___________________
William Noble
Ray Manley
_______________________
I agree with the comments of Vinaya Natarajan (27 October). There are many multicultural festivals in our part of Australia and growing numbers attend. But you missed from your list the Aboriginal culture. Because the Aboriginals are the first Australians, we do need to weave some of the amazing Aboriginal culture into our "Brand Australia". In NZ, they teach Maori culture in schools as part of the curriculum, and every Kiwi male Maori, Pakeha, Chinese, African etc can do the Haka. It's stirring to watch. This is only one of the bits of Maoridom that are woven into "Brand Kiwi". I don't think that Paul Hogan tossing shrimps on a barbie, transvestites roaming the desert on a bus, Nicole Kidman riding a horse and Lara Bingle on a beach calling out 'where the hell are ya' quite do it for Australia.
Olive Weir
____________________
I read in the paper that the Government is going to introduce an internet filter to filter out all sorts of things. If it targeted child pornographic sites only, I would have no problem with that. But I do have a problem with it slowing up the internet speed, and encroaching on other areas. Is the next step to filter out information against the government of the day? Don't do this. The loss of freedom is not worth it in the long run.
David Simpson
____________________
I suggest the government allow all people 55 years of age or over, who are retired or semi-retired, to access their superannuation funds completely free of income tax and free of any capital gains tax and any other tax/charges. The benefits of doing this are many - especially with the current credit crisis. It would provide a much needed big boost to consumer spending; reducepersonal debt; increase people leaving the workforce and thus provide more jobs, keeping a lid on unemployment; boost the housing market (retired people would sell their large home and downsize); increase bank savings and retail investments by people with surplus cash funds; and boost the stockmarket.
Nino Molar
_______________________________
I would like to express my view that the Federal Government should do more to help support and improve public transport. While delivery is a State Government responsibility, the federals should fund projects that improve and expand the infrastructure. And with carbon trading, it's vital that electric urban public transport (trains and trams) not be penalised, and that some consideration is given to its overall environmental benefits.
Michael Pearce
__________________________
At the moment Westfarmers is looking at buying Coles Supermarket (food and petrol outlets). If the Federal Government bought Coles, they could provide the real competition Australians need. We know the ACCC had some idea of collusion between Coles and Woolworths and having the Federal Government competing should help bring down prices. For those that say it will take away competition, then where has it been with Coles and Woolworths? Doing this would also help to stock shelves with Australian goods and provide incentives to Australian industry.
Walter Christy
_________________________
I have never been a labour supporter, but I feel compelled to write to you to express my satisfaction with the way the ALP have governed since the election. I feel the regulation of several sectors such as banking is now necessary as history has show that the banks/finance sector have been the guilty party in each recession we have had in the past 25 years. Keep up the good work!
Dale Pearse
____________________
I'd urge the government to encourage people to buy some shares as they are a lower price now and this will help to bring the markets up! Now is a good time to buy shares and this will stimulate the markets surely.
Sue Fisher
___________________________
I am a immigrant who has chosen Australia as home. I love living here. However, after so many years here, it occured to me on Diwali day (today) that our country should celebrate all the important festivals of different religions. Be it Id, Chinese New Year or Diwali or Christmas, if all Australians get together and celebrate, we can really understand, appreciate each other. Also Australians can grow truly knowledgeable and tolerant of each other.
Vinaya Natarajan
____________________________
I, for one, would like to see the Lord's Prayer dropped from the commencement of Parliament. I just don't think it is the right place for the Lord's Prayer. It is not a church, it is parliament and I don't think it is an appropriate place for it. To me, it doesn't sound right at the beginning of the Parliamentary session nor anytime in the Parliament.
Sue Fisher
__________________________
Since the Rudd government took the reins, we no longer have the massive amount of empty Liberal Party spin thrust upon us. Those were backward tactics of John Howard. The people had become so very disenchanted by the posturing, do-nothing Liberals. It's great to see that we now have an active and responsible government.
William Boeder
_______________________________
I wish to express my approval of the Government's action in respect of the financial crisis. Particularly the response to the Opposition. I will be a very grateful single pensioner. Thank you.
Wendy Thomson
_______________________
This so-called feedback continues to be a "feelgood" column for the Labor Party. I disagree with Labor's education policy and, with a combined income over $120K with two children, my wife and I get nothing. Hey, guess what? Same as the Liberals gave us. NUTHIN!
Paul Saxby
____________________________
As a financial member and avid supporter of Labor, I commend the effort and thought that has gone into care payments and relief to seniors. I cared for my wife for two daunting years until she passed away early this year. I looked to her every need 24 hours a day and found it very hard, but also very rewarding. Not in the monetary sense, but it taught me just how brave cancer suffers are, and to be thankful for what we have. Thanks Prime Minister and Treasurer for your utmost consideration.
Ray Buckland
_______________________________
We need a national survey of baby-boomers to be undertaken fairly quickly. This is because the leading edge of baby-boomers (those born in 1946) will retire in a few years time. Each and every year after that for 18 years, there will be a large group of retirees with the potential to cause the greatest shift in population in our time. We need an urgent census of baby-boomers asking pertinent questions such as "Where do you intend retiring?" and also asking some questions about their state of health.
Alison Alloway
_______________________________
When Turnbull submitted a Censure Motion against the PM yesterday, he could have saved himself an exhaustive tirade by saying the following: We in the Liberal Party hate the fact that the PM is extremely popular with the voters and that he is handling the global crisis very well. He is looking after all Australians which is more than the Liberal Party would do.
Lindsay Crossing
_____________________________
I wish to thank the PM on behalf of the pensioners of Australia for most graciously topping up our pension with a very generous amount of money. Of course, there are a lot of pensioners who would say when is the next increase and that is so greedy of them; we have to be thankful for small mercies, because it could have been a lot less. Mr. Rudd is doing an excellent job of running our country after the pathetic performance of the previous Coalition's attempt. He is exceptional when being interviewed on TV; he speaks very well and shows excellent depth in politics.
Barry Carter
In the article by Mr Burke about red meat, there was no mention or consideration of the huge impact on greenhouse gases from the livestock industry - bigger than transport. It's time to start looking at other solutions that won't harm Australia's competitivity in the world - reducing meat consumption is a very good way - and might at the same time reduce some health issues at the same time.
Cheryl Veitch
____________________
Congratulations to the PM on his poise during the last few weeks. We need a bit of level headedness as always. Thanks also for the concessions the Government has tabled re extra spending money for Christmas. I would like to tell you though of the word on the workshop floor, with no expletives; the boys are asking for tax cuts, not spending money for pensioners and single mothers. You can only please some of the people.
Corinne Green
_________________________
During the last election there was talk about stopping banks charging exit fees for loans. The upcoming merger of the Commonwealth and Bank West would seem like a perfect time to say to the Commonwealth that to approve the sale the Government would require the bank to get rid of exit fees. At the moment with all the financial troubles facing the average person, the absence of exit fees may help a lot in refinancing.
Steve Balsdon
___________________________
Cameron Griffiths
_________________________________
Ian Ivers
_____________________________
Gary Butler
Mary Langler
William Boeder
_____________________________
Jacqueline Gregor
_________________________
John Douglas
_____________________________
Paula Hanks
__________________________
I am so pleased with Kevin Rudd's payment for all pensioners due on the 8th Dec/08. This will help so many people. Xmas is the worst time of the year for most pensioners, and this added payment will allow many pensioners to really celebrate Xmas. In my case, I can pay my car registration and insurance for the year plus buy some nice gifts for my children and grandchildren. A car is a luxury for most pensioners and, whilst mine is old, it is reliable and allows me to do a lot of voluntary work such as meals on wheels and lifeline. There is no doubt we need this increase; it has been a long time coming and had the Liberals won the last election, it would still not be forthcoming. Kevin Rudd has done the right thing in the form of a lump sum payment. We would love to see increases always paid in a lump sum payment as the state governments cannot take this money by increasing housing department rents.
Catherine Maley
___________________________
Whilst I support the Labor Party initiative to rescue our economy, I feel disgruntled by the fact that single people in the work force are left out. As singles we pay high tax to a system that seems to only recognise married people with children. Singles never get a handout.
Robert Wilson
___________________________
Great to see the Prime Minister taking such decisive action with the recent announcement of the Economic Security package. I'm more inclined to save the money we receive rather than spend it as there seems to be many commentators saying the worst may not yet be over. As a first time Labor voter, I'm glad to see my vote well spent, the cash injection is great but getting the economy back on track is most important.
Marcus Rummler
__________________________
People should buy into the stock market now while the stocks are lower in price. This is a good opportunity and there are good bargains out there.This will then start to drive the markets back up again and our Super. The 4 big banks here are strong and there are good companies out there so why are people waiting? Perhaps the government should be encouraging people to do this more on the television and radio.
Sue Fisher
___________________________
I have not stopped crying since Mr Rudd announced that those on a Disability Pension would receive $1400 for Christmas. For the first time in 13 years we finally have a lovely, thoughtful and sensitive Prime Minister and Government. For the first time in 13 years I will be able to buy one of those frozen Turkey dinners and little Christmas Puds and celebrate Christmas 2008. Please pass on my many thanks to Mr Rudd, Ms Julie Gillard and all the rest of the Labor Government.
Linda Wood
_____________________________
Until legislation stops the main arena for raising business capital (the stock market) from being a betting ring for speculators and glorified bookies and returns to its original charters of being a dignified, trustworthy and regulated financial institution around the world, we will not recover.
Terry Osland
I think it is great that the Government is helping all these people with the one-off bonuses. Could I say though that people like me need some help to. We are a married working coupe no kids in 50s , combined income $66,000 living in regional Queensland. We don't expect a handout but it would be great if something could be done about the petrol prices.
Lesley Henderson
________________________
It's gratifying to see my vote in action, Seeing Kevin Rudd "at home " and acting in the best interest of Australia while keeping the extreme capitalists representatives on the cross benches in line and off balance. About time and well done to the Rudd Government.
Terrence Walters
____________________
Thank you so much. I had tears in my eyes when I read that DSP people were included in the bonus payment. I am a Labor supporter but was getting worried. Again heartfelt thanks.
Christine Wilson
_____________________________
In reply to the latest round of money handouts: why is it that my wife and myself as both working couples have not received any handouts? We do not have any children at home but we get no assistance? Why are we being discriminated against?
John Perry
_________________________
Thank you for your help for Xmas. It is welcomed with gratitude
Joan Lockwood
____________________
I am very angry. It has just been broadcast that a so-called "famous" senator by the name of Barnaby Joyce says that the pensioners will waste their gift that the Rudd Government has so generously given to all pensioners and carers. The spending of this money is to kick-start the economy. I congratulate the Labor Party on taking this step as Disability Pensioners and carers have been totally ignored by the Liberal Party. May I ask if someone in your party can challenge Barnaby Joyce to live on the basic pension for 1 month, paying all expenses including $25 every 2 weeks for medication. Then we will see if he wishes to see us go without. I have no doubt that he would be too gutless to take up such a challenge.
_______________________
I am concerned at the move to include iodine in bread, not because I don't believe that some sort of fortification is unnecessary but because I am a vegetarian and, unless the source of the iodine is non-animal, then I will not be able to eat it. My request is either to specify that the iodine must be from a vegetable source or to ensure that manufacturers label their product to indicate where it is plant or animal iodine that is being used.
Frances Crum
____________________
Good news for first homebuyers, but the Government should make sure that this policy shouldn't be taken as an advantage for greedy sellers, real estate agents, home builders (and their contracters) to 'jack up' prices by that $20,000.
Philip Mah
_______________________________
Thank Kevin on my behalf . Now we can have a bit of ham plus on our table . It's long overdue, but better late than never. God bless him.
Lindsay Texier
________________________________
I appreciate and approve in general the recent actions taken with the economic stimulus package. There are opportunities in this crisis to introduce changes to achieve a better society and a better world and I look forward with confidence to our Labor team doing just that. Keep up the good work!
Sinclair Armour
_______________________________
The news regarding the increase of pensions is absolutely astounding; it couldn't come at a better time for them. You have for sure our elderly Aussies with smiles from ear to ear. Congratulations on great policy.
Daniel Moygannon
_______________________________
I just wanted to comment on the current financial crisis, and the plans by the Government to release the surplus to give Australia an easing of the impending recession. I think this commendable, especially focusing on infrastructure. However, I think we should see this as an opportunity to step out of old habits and into new traditions that are environmentally more responsible. If we can focus on improving public transport, our rail networks both urban and rural, we would be stepping in the right direction- think the fast trains or Europe and Japan. I think we have an opportunity to look past the 'fast fix' and step forward with a progressive attitude.
Tiffany Angus
___________________________
Our PM is doing the best he can for all Australians and it's unthinkable that some people are so myopic!
Alice Reid
_______________________________
Having been a lifetime Labor supporter (& my parents & grandparents before me), I was recently having doubts about my political affirmation mainly due to the adverse media heaped upon Labor during the last nine months. But I must say my faith in the workers' party has been restored by the recent news coming from Labor including the increased home buyers support, pensions, arts, plus many more positive programs to support the Australian economy. What does concern me is that the banks gobble up the benefits in increased fees and real estate agents keep on increasing their commissions.
Kevin Grose
_______________________________
Thank you so very much to the Labor Government for the one off payment for my kids. Their father was hit by a car while delivering mail last week and I was so worried how we were going to get through Christmas. This one off payment has taken a large worry from me and my family. God bless you Mr Rudd.
Veta Neitzel
____________________
I'm sick of Turnbull mouthing off about how uncaring this Government is for pensioners when the libs did NOTHING to help pensioners for years! Please Mr Rudd take him to task over it publicly! Also, please help students as well. I'm a mature age student studying full time to try to escape poverty & ill health & Austudy is pretty much impossible to cope on. I wish I did live on $270 a week; try it on $200 when you're renting!
Leonie Hitchenor
___________________
I applaud the recognition of pensioners who will receive a well needed Christmas bonus. But I'd like the government to recognise that in Australia there are many single income earners, paying rent, who can't afford to purchase a home, and who may like me be paying back debts because of a situation that was beyond my control. I pay for my mothers home support service - because she needs home care. It's time for a change, even if the world is in financial crisis - a crisis created by pure gluttony.
Geraldine Quinn
_______________________________
I would just like to say how proud I am to be a member of the Labor Party and to know that so many of the wrongs are being put right by the Labor Team in Canberra.
Subhada Das
___________________________
I believe that the Government's Green Paper on carbon pollution reduction does not go far enough. Also, we can't just focus on carbon dioxide. What about methane and all the other greenhouse gases. We need to reduce our use of them too. I am prepared to do my bit to combat climate change; most Australians are also prepared to take strong action.
Jaden Harris
________________________________
The Australian Labor Party must be commended that they are governing for the needy citizens of Australia, unlike the Liberal government which tended to look after the well-off Australians only.
Markham Ryland
______________________________
I think that the financial situation in Australia is good. Our banks are good so what is all the panic about. There is too much panic talk eg. meltdowns, crisis etc. The media is having a field day with all of this and it is all fueling this irrational fear that is going around. Things are not that bad; the sky is not going to fall in. In fact, people should be seeing the stockmarket for example as an opportunity to buy stocks at a lower price which in turn will start to drive the markets higher and things will start to improve. This is how I see the situation.
Sue Fisher
________________________________
Helen
Daintree
_________________________
Ray Jenkins
__________________________
As a 28 year-old, last year's election was the first time I became actively engaged and interested in policy and initiatives being put forward by the parties. At that time, having a particular interest in the education policy, I especially noted the "education revolution" put forward by Labor. Having watched the 7.30 Report last night (9/10/08), I was extremely impressed with the leadership, strength, composure, and appropriate responses of Kevin Rudd on the financial situation across the globe and in Australia. I felt it important to write in to say, for the first time in a long time, I felt a leading politician was responding in very appropriate ways that are needed by the Australian society.
Emma Liversidge
_______________________________
Update the public holidays so they are relevant. Out with Labor Day and the Queen's Birthday and in with Environment Day and Kokoda Day. Some say the States decide this things but a clear lead from the Federal Government would get things moving in the right direction.
Bill Adams
_____________________________
I just saw the PM interviewed by Kerry O'Brien and was very impressed with his responses in regards to the growing economic crisis. I responded to his commitment to true leadership and to avoiding political commentary. There is too much fear mongering in modern politics and I am surprised that Mr O'Brien continued to ask for your financial predictions and fears. He should know better than to ask irresponsible questions. Keep up the great work - 10 months strong!
Matthew Neilson
Davin Scott
Margaret Moir
_________________________________
William Sams
____________________
Regarding the forthcoming review of pensions, I trust the Government will consider the plight of all welfare recipients and not just the Aged Pensioners. Any increase in pension payments should be extended to all those relying on income support, including the unemployed. As a sole parent studying full time, I also am struggling. I would argue that my household costs are greater than an aged pensioner with no dependents and my studies and caring responsibilities make it very difficult to add to my income with paid employment. I am a widow, so receive no support either financially or emotionally from my child's father.
Helen Franklin
____________________________
Susan Owens
___________________________
Federal and Sate Labor governments have recently made a commitment to fast-track infrastructure projects in order to shore up our country against recession. I think this is a good move but would like to be assured that these projects will be built in such a way that no significant increase in greenhouse gas emissions is brought about. Large infrastructure projects will require large amounts of energy for their construction. I suggest the Government commit to building-in renewable energy generation as part of the infrastructure plan. This would mean setting aside enough money for each project to build its own power source, which could go on providing energy long after the the project is completed. If we are serious about trying to prevent catastrophic climate change, then we must think about how greenhouse gases can be reduced for everything we do.
Heather Cousland
___________________________
Prime Minister Rudd has called for a check on the greed mentality of banks and other financial institutions, and the corporate sector. Currently there is a volatile cannibalistic mentality adopted by those who should have been taught the dangers of "greed is good." Greed leads to corruption and abuse of the law. Would the Liberal Party have been so honest in this time of crisis?
____________________
My beloved wife of 43 years (she is 68) has been struck down with a major stroke, and has to go into full care nursing - probably for the rest of her life. My comment is to point out the huge gap that lies between physically incapacitated people who need full care, and those people who need full aged care. At present there is no differentiation in public care facilities between these two groups. Consequently my wife, who is mentally sound and not incontinent, is placed with people who generally are suffering dementia and incontinent. This is a terrible situation for her, and many others like her. We desperately need separate full care facilities for those younger people who need full care. Our aged care facilities are just that - 'aged' care - and are soul destroying institutions for people such as my wife and the many younger people who are in her position (eg there is one woman stroke victim of 21 in an 'aged care' facility) .
Peter Williams
__________________________
Good on you Labor! Being part of a dedicated team that formed a Community Centre to supply some basic services to this "isolated" district, it was refreshing to receive the news from the Federal Member for the Seat of Flynn (Chris Trevor MP) that Labor had increased the amount available to associations like ours under the Volunteer Grants Program to $5000 and, more importantly, there is now a provision for associations to receive a grant to help out with volunteer petrol costs. Thanks for the help to struggling Community Associations such as ours.
Kevin Grose
____________________________
I agree that to have children is a personal choice. Why should some-one else pay for you to have an income while you are off work building yourself a family. If you cannot afford kids, you should not have any or you should get yourself a second job. The welfare system is still there for the needy and the greedy, but everyone else please fund your baby time from your own resources.
Olive Weir
_________________________
With the push to get new nurses into the health care system, why don't we look inside it and bring it up to a level playing field first. Nurses in the aged care system have the lowest wages, the worst benefits, and worst conditions. We say we are looking at improving care to our growing aged sector, so why not start there and make sure that they have the best possible care available. Happy aged care nurses would be a great start.
Col Myers
____________________
I wish life could be easier for the not so fortunate. I am so sick of being poor, and renting privately. Hurry along with well designed community housing - there are so many empty buildings around. Why do cashed up folk have to own so many properties, most of which remain empty for most the the year. Greed is not good; Gordon got it wrong.
Pamela Oberman
___________________________
I am sick of advertising still using the imperial system. We have been metric for 40 years and still things like televisions are advertised as 46". The metric system should be the mandatory primary description in advertising, with the option of providing the imperial version.
Andrew Hilton
__________________________
I agree with Senator John Faulkner about reducing senate terms from 6 years to 4 years and at the same time come in line with the House of Reps. This should have happened years ago.
Greg Thomson
___________________________
I welcome the report into paid maternity leave; my only concern is that it will not be implemented soon enough. I am a 29 year-old women with many friends having recently started a family or about to start. I know that paid maternity leave will definitely have a profound effect on their health and wellbeing. Australia was one of the first countries to give women the vote and I hope that paid maternity leave is implemented very quickly in Australia so we can hold our head up in the Equal Opportunity arena again.
Elisabeth Backhouse
______________________________
Bengt Johansson
____________________________
My concern is too much happening too quickly for people to have time to digest, think about, and hopefully appreciate. My 34 year-old university educated son said that he felt Labor was not good at getting across the good work they are doing. I have been thrilled to have Labor finally back in power but am so aware that the media is basically still run by owners who are pro-Liberal. To stay in power and achieve the goals we require, we need to get the correct (truthful) information to all people.
Margaret Moir
________________________
The only choice the Government has on climate change is large cuts in greenhouse gases quickly. There is no time left for "balance". Whatever the recommendations Ross Garnaut delivers, the governments objective must be to keep CO2 under 450 parts per million. My vote for Kevin Rudd was for this purpose alone. If the sea level rises, I will be one of the first to lose my house and I would like to think that the only person I had to blame was Howard.
Geoff Kennedy
__________________________
I think the Government should appoint a roving ambassador for climate change to get other countries on board.
Rhondda Hart
Seaforth NSW
9 November 2008
_____________________________It would cost $9 billion to remove the excise tax on petrol, keeping
the GST. This would reduce inflation and result in a fairer tax break to all -
as well as making our businesses more competitive internationally. This is the
way to stimulate the economy. The government would probably get most of the $9B
back in GST from extra economic activity engendered.
Michael Angel
Sydney NSW
9 November 2008
___________________________
I have just read the report on how Labor is going to increase the number of doctors - excellent. So when there is a good doctor serving the community in a country town - I mean in Horsham - why send him back to Germany just because he has a child with a disability? The doctor seems to me to more than have justified his right to remain in Australia with his family- country towns need doctors & many prefer to remain in the city.
Edith Cleland
Campbell ACT
8 November 2008
_____________________________I am like most people in our local area - we have a mortgage and are doing or best to cover the cost of this mortgage. I understand the importance of banks maintaining healthy business profits but I think they should accept some reduction in profits and pass on the full interest rate cuts. We are all feeling the pain due to the current economic crisis that was developed by the financial sector, so it should only be fair that they accept some of the pain as well.
Peter O'Reilly
Tumbi Umbi NSW
8 November 2008
_______________________________I am writing to express my concern about the closure of the Academy of Music in South Melbourne. We have gained much benefit from this facility which has enabled young performers to remain in Australia for a period of intense study in performance skills. We have excellent musicians and perfoming centres in Australia and have made great advances in these areas over the last 15 years or so. Please reconsider the decision to close the Acadamy.
Prue Brown
Kew VIC
7 November 2008
____________________ While it is true that children should not be exposed to violent or pornographic content on the internet, there is other more efficient and less expensive ways to do this that the proposed internet filtering. Educating parents on how to keep their children safe on the internet would do wonders. Also, making sure to advertise home based internet filtering (such as the software used in the current NetAlert scheme) would benefit families without slowing down Australia's internet, breaking banking encryptions and taking away civil liberties.
Liam O'Sullivan
Brisbane QLD
7 November 2008
___________________________Wonderful result, Obama the new President elect of the US. George Bush of course with his popularity rating of around 20% will not apologise for the enemies he has created for his country by attacking and threatening countries without justification and causing of hundreds of thousands of civilian deaths. And John Howard of course will not hand back the several medals awarded to him by Israel and apologise to all Australians for joining in the Bush wars and causing our country to have enemies we did not have before.
Frank Crichlow
Carrara QLD
6 November 2008
__________________________Let's hear positive talk about the economy instead of this constant gloom and doom talk, grim news that we seem to be hearing day in and day out . Focus on the positives, not the negatives, and then the community picks up on this and acts more positively too. Instead of seeing the glass half empty, why not see it more as the glass half full, then things will get better. Things are pretty good out there so stop dwelling on the negatives so much! The media is doing this as well and this just causes problems.
Sue Fisher
Brighton VIC
6 November 2008
_________________________I would like to say a hearty thank-you to the Rudd Government for the proposed inclusion of iodine in bread products. As someone who has had thyroid problems and faces removal of some of it, it is very important for me to have sufficient iodine and a very welcome move. Keep up the good work.
Anne Every
Moonah TAS
5 November 2008
___________________The government may be trying to tell the banks to pass on the full reserve bank interest rate cut but I think it is missing a great deal of the pie. Try the non bank lenders. We are with Bluestone and they have only passed on .5%, when the reserve bank has given 2.5% in cuts. The cut we got equates to about $30 a month. So the other 2% would be aprox $120 per month. On one wage that would be like heaven. I understand they are in kind of trouble getting more money but come on, holding onto 2% when we are currently on 10.25% really sucks. We can not jump ship as the fees would add about $2000 to $3000 to our mortgage.
William Noble
Cranbourne North VIC
5 November 2008
__________________________
The vast majority of job seekers want to find work and many, if not most,
would be happy to do an activity if they truly believe that it will help them.
But it should be their choice. Thus I believe that 'Mutual Obligation' activities should
be voluntary. The other problem with Mutual Obligation is the
monitoring and checking procedures, such as having diaries signed. This takes
the initiative away from individuals and many find this type of monitoring
degrading and demeaning, because it assumes that job seekers are not
trustworthy enough to turn up to their activity.
Ray Manley
Lara VIC
4 November 2008
_______________________I agree with the comments of Vinaya Natarajan (27 October). There are many multicultural festivals in our part of Australia and growing numbers attend. But you missed from your list the Aboriginal culture. Because the Aboriginals are the first Australians, we do need to weave some of the amazing Aboriginal culture into our "Brand Australia". In NZ, they teach Maori culture in schools as part of the curriculum, and every Kiwi male Maori, Pakeha, Chinese, African etc can do the Haka. It's stirring to watch. This is only one of the bits of Maoridom that are woven into "Brand Kiwi". I don't think that Paul Hogan tossing shrimps on a barbie, transvestites roaming the desert on a bus, Nicole Kidman riding a horse and Lara Bingle on a beach calling out 'where the hell are ya' quite do it for Australia.
Olive Weir
Brisbane QLD
3 November 2008
____________________ I read in the paper that the Government is going to introduce an internet filter to filter out all sorts of things. If it targeted child pornographic sites only, I would have no problem with that. But I do have a problem with it slowing up the internet speed, and encroaching on other areas. Is the next step to filter out information against the government of the day? Don't do this. The loss of freedom is not worth it in the long run.
David Simpson
Brisbane QLD
2 November 2008
____________________ I suggest the government allow all people 55 years of age or over, who are retired or semi-retired, to access their superannuation funds completely free of income tax and free of any capital gains tax and any other tax/charges. The benefits of doing this are many - especially with the current credit crisis. It would provide a much needed big boost to consumer spending; reducepersonal debt; increase people leaving the workforce and thus provide more jobs, keeping a lid on unemployment; boost the housing market (retired people would sell their large home and downsize); increase bank savings and retail investments by people with surplus cash funds; and boost the stockmarket.
Nino Molar
Karrinyup WA
1 November 2008
_______________________________I would like to express my view that the Federal Government should do more to help support and improve public transport. While delivery is a State Government responsibility, the federals should fund projects that improve and expand the infrastructure. And with carbon trading, it's vital that electric urban public transport (trains and trams) not be penalised, and that some consideration is given to its overall environmental benefits.
Michael Pearce
Blackburn VIC
31 October 2008
__________________________At the moment Westfarmers is looking at buying Coles Supermarket (food and petrol outlets). If the Federal Government bought Coles, they could provide the real competition Australians need. We know the ACCC had some idea of collusion between Coles and Woolworths and having the Federal Government competing should help bring down prices. For those that say it will take away competition, then where has it been with Coles and Woolworths? Doing this would also help to stock shelves with Australian goods and provide incentives to Australian industry.
Walter Christy
Shearwater TAS
30 October 2008
_________________________I have never been a labour supporter, but I feel compelled to write to you to express my satisfaction with the way the ALP have governed since the election. I feel the regulation of several sectors such as banking is now necessary as history has show that the banks/finance sector have been the guilty party in each recession we have had in the past 25 years. Keep up the good work!
Dale Pearse
Mooroopna VIC
29 October 2008
____________________ I'd urge the government to encourage people to buy some shares as they are a lower price now and this will help to bring the markets up! Now is a good time to buy shares and this will stimulate the markets surely.
Sue Fisher
Melbourne VIC
28 October 2008
___________________________I am a immigrant who has chosen Australia as home. I love living here. However, after so many years here, it occured to me on Diwali day (today) that our country should celebrate all the important festivals of different religions. Be it Id, Chinese New Year or Diwali or Christmas, if all Australians get together and celebrate, we can really understand, appreciate each other. Also Australians can grow truly knowledgeable and tolerant of each other.
Vinaya Natarajan
Gold Coast QLD
27 October 2008
____________________________I, for one, would like to see the Lord's Prayer dropped from the commencement of Parliament. I just don't think it is the right place for the Lord's Prayer. It is not a church, it is parliament and I don't think it is an appropriate place for it. To me, it doesn't sound right at the beginning of the Parliamentary session nor anytime in the Parliament.
Sue Fisher
Brighton VIC
26 October 2008
__________________________Since the Rudd government took the reins, we no longer have the massive amount of empty Liberal Party spin thrust upon us. Those were backward tactics of John Howard. The people had become so very disenchanted by the posturing, do-nothing Liberals. It's great to see that we now have an active and responsible government.
William Boeder
Rosebery TAS
25 October 2008
_______________________________I wish to express my approval of the Government's action in respect of the financial crisis. Particularly the response to the Opposition. I will be a very grateful single pensioner. Thank you.
Wendy Thomson
Graceville QLD
24 October 2008
_______________________This so-called feedback continues to be a "feelgood" column for the Labor Party. I disagree with Labor's education policy and, with a combined income over $120K with two children, my wife and I get nothing. Hey, guess what? Same as the Liberals gave us. NUTHIN!
Paul Saxby
Bundaberg QLD
24 October 2008
____________________________As a financial member and avid supporter of Labor, I commend the effort and thought that has gone into care payments and relief to seniors. I cared for my wife for two daunting years until she passed away early this year. I looked to her every need 24 hours a day and found it very hard, but also very rewarding. Not in the monetary sense, but it taught me just how brave cancer suffers are, and to be thankful for what we have. Thanks Prime Minister and Treasurer for your utmost consideration.
Ray Buckland
Bridgewater TAS
24 October 2008
_______________________________We need a national survey of baby-boomers to be undertaken fairly quickly. This is because the leading edge of baby-boomers (those born in 1946) will retire in a few years time. Each and every year after that for 18 years, there will be a large group of retirees with the potential to cause the greatest shift in population in our time. We need an urgent census of baby-boomers asking pertinent questions such as "Where do you intend retiring?" and also asking some questions about their state of health.
Alison Alloway
Cairns QLD
24 October 2008
_______________________________When Turnbull submitted a Censure Motion against the PM yesterday, he could have saved himself an exhaustive tirade by saying the following: We in the Liberal Party hate the fact that the PM is extremely popular with the voters and that he is handling the global crisis very well. He is looking after all Australians which is more than the Liberal Party would do.
Lindsay Crossing
Happy Valley SA
24 October 2008
_____________________________I wish to thank the PM on behalf of the pensioners of Australia for most graciously topping up our pension with a very generous amount of money. Of course, there are a lot of pensioners who would say when is the next increase and that is so greedy of them; we have to be thankful for small mercies, because it could have been a lot less. Mr. Rudd is doing an excellent job of running our country after the pathetic performance of the previous Coalition's attempt. He is exceptional when being interviewed on TV; he speaks very well and shows excellent depth in politics.
Barry Carter
Umina Beach NSW
23 October 2008
____________________________________
In the article by Mr Burke about red meat, there was no mention or consideration of the huge impact on greenhouse gases from the livestock industry - bigger than transport. It's time to start looking at other solutions that won't harm Australia's competitivity in the world - reducing meat consumption is a very good way - and might at the same time reduce some health issues at the same time.
Cheryl Veitch
Melbourne VIC
23 October 2008
____________________
Congratulations to the PM on his poise during the last few weeks. We need a bit of level headedness as always. Thanks also for the concessions the Government has tabled re extra spending money for Christmas. I would like to tell you though of the word on the workshop floor, with no expletives; the boys are asking for tax cuts, not spending money for pensioners and single mothers. You can only please some of the people.
Corinne Green
Bargara QLD
22 October 2008
_________________________During the last election there was talk about stopping banks charging exit fees for loans. The upcoming merger of the Commonwealth and Bank West would seem like a perfect time to say to the Commonwealth that to approve the sale the Government would require the bank to get rid of exit fees. At the moment with all the financial troubles facing the average person, the absence of exit fees may help a lot in refinancing.
Steve Balsdon
Wyoming NSW
22 October 2008
___________________________I refer to the Government's proposed plan for cyber-safety in Australian homes. The plan, while admirable, seems like it is going to be putting a lot of people
into a situation that is only necessary for a few. Whichever method the
government chooses to implement, it is going to result in a severe limitation
to our freedoms. So I propose allowing concerned parents to contact the
government and request this filter in place at their home. By all means, go
ahead with the education of teachers and the general populace on how to use the
Internet safely, but mandatory filters? Not the right way to go.
Cameron Griffiths
Fig Tree Pocket QLD
22 October 2008
_________________________________
I'm a 30 year-old average Australian married bloke that has just started a family. My wife & I have a beautiful little 9 month-old Flynn & another one on the way. My wife & I both work & rely a lot on my wife's parents to help out looking after him. We have never been into politics & always thought you guys were completely engulfed in corruption & greed and that there would not be much hope for our poor kids. But I say to Mr Rudd that, since you have been Prime Minister, you have kept all your promises & been true to your word. Never in my lifetime has such a feat been achieved in my political view. I am one among the many that is a low wage earner & work hard. This one year you have added an extra $60 to my wage thanks to your tax cuts & the low wage earners increase. After we have been told were not worthy for so long by the Liberals, your Government makes us proud to belong to the best country in the world!
Ian Ivers
Wamberal NSW
21 October 2008
_____________________________Today various articles in the Australian newspaper are suggesting that 'blanket' government insurance of private depositors bank accounts, as logically proposed by government, be 'capped'. The leader of the opposition has even suggested that he is "not aware of any comparable country" that offered a blanket guarantee. I suppose he thinks Germany and Ireland not comparable. The articles also elude to a drying up of 'competition' and loan sources for Australian corporations such as investment banks that are losing monies invested to the more secure insured bank deposits. One should not lose sight of the main culprits of the global financial disaster, namely investment banks who should not expect much help from all governments after the mess they've got us in. Regulated deposit taking institutions of which there are many can now fill the void as 'free market' principles trim the less prudently managed of these. Do not change a good policy on the suggestion of a past investment banker pretending to be looking out for all Australians.
Gary Butler
South Brighton SA
21 October 2008
________________________________
Giving hand outs to first home buyers with no strings attached may be good for the economy, but it could have been used as an incentive to build environmentally friendly homes. The huge "MacMansions" that are the current trend have little or no overhang and often little natural lighting and are almost never built with the aspect in mind, only for "show". We can now expect more and more of our arable taken up with housing estates instead of encouraging more high density housing.
Mary Langler
Park Ridge South QLD
20 October 2008
___________________________
After having taken a good hard look at what remains of
Australia's manufacturing
sector after 12 years of Liberal Government, then to look at the remaining
industries we have, we ain’t got much left. The previous of what was a growth
industry, that being the financial sector, is now not ever going to reach the high
levels of the past. To think that under the Liberals all these expert analysts,
advisors, superannuation specialists and so on, most of them with no eye on the
duty of care that should have been the backbone of all these per-centile
spielers, were allowed to proliferate in the numbers they did tells its own
story. Clearly the Liberal Government did not care either way what happened at
the end of the day to people’s savings and superannuation. Thankfully, the
interest and the subsequent action that Kevin Rudd has displayed shows all
Australians that the Liberal Party Government is all about itself, their
deplorable use of spin and their own aggrandizement .I believe that our
Australian futures lay in re-creating our own self sufficiency, as opposed to
becoming an importer to this country of so many of life’s essentials, to the
point where it leaves us beholden to other countries for our daily basic
household needs.Greed is endemic to the corporatization of even our simple
grocery shops. Nowadays, the mighty corporate leviathans seek produce from
lesser trusted suppliers than our own proud Australian grown and manufactured
goods. Profit before honesty and integrity is their mantra.
William Boeder
Rosebery TAS
20 October 2008
_____________________________
I was encouraged by the PM’s comments regarding the health system and
the move towards a national system. I am so frustrated by the state/federal
divide. This is becoming a desperate situation. I am Senior Allied Health
Professional with 9 years experience working in a large tertiary hospital in a
reputable rehabilitation unit. Things are getting desperate in our ability to
provide not just quality but SAFE services to patients. I have watched so many
of my colleagues leave due to frustration and chronic staff shortages and
refusal of management to approve recruitment to vacancies. We need a
comprehensive seamless continuum of care. I have worked in the NHS in the
UK and despite
its problems they do this very well. All the above issues I have mentioned just
lead to an increase length of stay, massive increases in costs, risk to
patients and burnout of staff. There is an army of us out here dedicated to the cause, but something needs to be done ASAP.
Jacqueline Gregor
Randwick NSW
19 October 2008
_________________________I can see how the boosted grants for first home buyers may encourage
growth, thus helping to restore some confidence in the marketplace. But what
about those who have bought there first house in the last 12 to 18 months?
Things are unravelling around them, money is tight and the situation is
starting to get very tough. Perhaps they are the most in need of financial
support right now? Doesn't saving a new home owner from defaulting on a loan
equate to the same thing as assisting a potential buyer? Continuing to
encourage growth this way was an important step; but please assist those
battling the most during this time of economic pandemonium.
John Douglas
Ulverstone TAS
19 October 2008
_____________________________
Unfortunately I see a lot of handout money being wasted by people instead of using it to help themselves. People without children should get a bonus for supporting all the handout recipients constantly. I'm okay with the pensioners but people who want kids should realize it is their cost and their responsibility - not the community's. It doesn't take special ability to pop kids out.
Paula Hanks
Burnie TAS
19 October 2008
__________________________I am so pleased with Kevin Rudd's payment for all pensioners due on the 8th Dec/08. This will help so many people. Xmas is the worst time of the year for most pensioners, and this added payment will allow many pensioners to really celebrate Xmas. In my case, I can pay my car registration and insurance for the year plus buy some nice gifts for my children and grandchildren. A car is a luxury for most pensioners and, whilst mine is old, it is reliable and allows me to do a lot of voluntary work such as meals on wheels and lifeline. There is no doubt we need this increase; it has been a long time coming and had the Liberals won the last election, it would still not be forthcoming. Kevin Rudd has done the right thing in the form of a lump sum payment. We would love to see increases always paid in a lump sum payment as the state governments cannot take this money by increasing housing department rents.
Catherine Maley
Glenorchy TAS
18 October 2008
___________________________Whilst I support the Labor Party initiative to rescue our economy, I feel disgruntled by the fact that single people in the work force are left out. As singles we pay high tax to a system that seems to only recognise married people with children. Singles never get a handout.
Robert Wilson
Bellevue Hill NSW
18 October 2008
___________________________Great to see the Prime Minister taking such decisive action with the recent announcement of the Economic Security package. I'm more inclined to save the money we receive rather than spend it as there seems to be many commentators saying the worst may not yet be over. As a first time Labor voter, I'm glad to see my vote well spent, the cash injection is great but getting the economy back on track is most important.
Marcus Rummler
Emu Heights NSW
18 October 2008
__________________________People should buy into the stock market now while the stocks are lower in price. This is a good opportunity and there are good bargains out there.This will then start to drive the markets back up again and our Super. The 4 big banks here are strong and there are good companies out there so why are people waiting? Perhaps the government should be encouraging people to do this more on the television and radio.
Sue Fisher
Brighton VIC
17 October 2008
___________________________I have not stopped crying since Mr Rudd announced that those on a Disability Pension would receive $1400 for Christmas. For the first time in 13 years we finally have a lovely, thoughtful and sensitive Prime Minister and Government. For the first time in 13 years I will be able to buy one of those frozen Turkey dinners and little Christmas Puds and celebrate Christmas 2008. Please pass on my many thanks to Mr Rudd, Ms Julie Gillard and all the rest of the Labor Government.
Linda Wood
Heathridge WA
17 October 2008
_____________________________Until legislation stops the main arena for raising business capital (the stock market) from being a betting ring for speculators and glorified bookies and returns to its original charters of being a dignified, trustworthy and regulated financial institution around the world, we will not recover.
Terry Osland
Singleton NSW
17 October 2008
____________________
I think it is great that the Government is helping all these people with the one-off bonuses. Could I say though that people like me need some help to. We are a married working coupe no kids in 50s , combined income $66,000 living in regional Queensland. We don't expect a handout but it would be great if something could be done about the petrol prices.
Lesley Henderson
South Townsville QLD
17 October 2008
________________________It's gratifying to see my vote in action, Seeing Kevin Rudd "at home " and acting in the best interest of Australia while keeping the extreme capitalists representatives on the cross benches in line and off balance. About time and well done to the Rudd Government.
Terrence Walters
Rosedale QLD
16 October 2008
____________________ Thank you so much. I had tears in my eyes when I read that DSP people were included in the bonus payment. I am a Labor supporter but was getting worried. Again heartfelt thanks.
Christine Wilson
Tweed Heads NSW
16 October 2008
_____________________________In reply to the latest round of money handouts: why is it that my wife and myself as both working couples have not received any handouts? We do not have any children at home but we get no assistance? Why are we being discriminated against?
John Perry
Adelaide SA
16 October 2008
_________________________Thank you for your help for Xmas. It is welcomed with gratitude
Joan Lockwood
Bundaberg QLD
16 October 2008
____________________ I am very angry. It has just been broadcast that a so-called "famous" senator by the name of Barnaby Joyce says that the pensioners will waste their gift that the Rudd Government has so generously given to all pensioners and carers. The spending of this money is to kick-start the economy. I congratulate the Labor Party on taking this step as Disability Pensioners and carers have been totally ignored by the Liberal Party. May I ask if someone in your party can challenge Barnaby Joyce to live on the basic pension for 1 month, paying all expenses including $25 every 2 weeks for medication. Then we will see if he wishes to see us go without. I have no doubt that he would be too gutless to take up such a challenge.
Barry Morgan
Cairns QLD
16 October 2008
_______________________I am concerned at the move to include iodine in bread, not because I don't believe that some sort of fortification is unnecessary but because I am a vegetarian and, unless the source of the iodine is non-animal, then I will not be able to eat it. My request is either to specify that the iodine must be from a vegetable source or to ensure that manufacturers label their product to indicate where it is plant or animal iodine that is being used.
Frances Crum
Rooty Hill NSW
16 October 2008
____________________ Good news for first homebuyers, but the Government should make sure that this policy shouldn't be taken as an advantage for greedy sellers, real estate agents, home builders (and their contracters) to 'jack up' prices by that $20,000.
Philip Mah
Currambine WA
16 October 2008
_______________________________Thank Kevin on my behalf . Now we can have a bit of ham plus on our table . It's long overdue, but better late than never. God bless him.
Lindsay Texier
L'Pool NSW
15 October 2008
________________________________I appreciate and approve in general the recent actions taken with the economic stimulus package. There are opportunities in this crisis to introduce changes to achieve a better society and a better world and I look forward with confidence to our Labor team doing just that. Keep up the good work!
Sinclair Armour
Maleny QLD
15 October 2008
_______________________________The news regarding the increase of pensions is absolutely astounding; it couldn't come at a better time for them. You have for sure our elderly Aussies with smiles from ear to ear. Congratulations on great policy.
Daniel Moygannon
Wollongong NSW
15 October 2008
_______________________________I just wanted to comment on the current financial crisis, and the plans by the Government to release the surplus to give Australia an easing of the impending recession. I think this commendable, especially focusing on infrastructure. However, I think we should see this as an opportunity to step out of old habits and into new traditions that are environmentally more responsible. If we can focus on improving public transport, our rail networks both urban and rural, we would be stepping in the right direction- think the fast trains or Europe and Japan. I think we have an opportunity to look past the 'fast fix' and step forward with a progressive attitude.
Tiffany Angus
Hamlyn Heights VIC
15 October 2008
___________________________Our PM is doing the best he can for all Australians and it's unthinkable that some people are so myopic!
Alice Reid
Kaleen ACT
15 October 2008
_______________________________Having been a lifetime Labor supporter (& my parents & grandparents before me), I was recently having doubts about my political affirmation mainly due to the adverse media heaped upon Labor during the last nine months. But I must say my faith in the workers' party has been restored by the recent news coming from Labor including the increased home buyers support, pensions, arts, plus many more positive programs to support the Australian economy. What does concern me is that the banks gobble up the benefits in increased fees and real estate agents keep on increasing their commissions.
Kevin Grose
Baffle Creek QLD
14 October 2008
_______________________________Thank you so very much to the Labor Government for the one off payment for my kids. Their father was hit by a car while delivering mail last week and I was so worried how we were going to get through Christmas. This one off payment has taken a large worry from me and my family. God bless you Mr Rudd.
Veta Neitzel
Longford TAS
14 October 2008
____________________ I'm sick of Turnbull mouthing off about how uncaring this Government is for pensioners when the libs did NOTHING to help pensioners for years! Please Mr Rudd take him to task over it publicly! Also, please help students as well. I'm a mature age student studying full time to try to escape poverty & ill health & Austudy is pretty much impossible to cope on. I wish I did live on $270 a week; try it on $200 when you're renting!
Leonie Hitchenor
Ettalong Beach NSW
14 October 2008
___________________I applaud the recognition of pensioners who will receive a well needed Christmas bonus. But I'd like the government to recognise that in Australia there are many single income earners, paying rent, who can't afford to purchase a home, and who may like me be paying back debts because of a situation that was beyond my control. I pay for my mothers home support service - because she needs home care. It's time for a change, even if the world is in financial crisis - a crisis created by pure gluttony.
Geraldine Quinn
Edgeworth NSW
14 October 2008
_______________________________I would just like to say how proud I am to be a member of the Labor Party and to know that so many of the wrongs are being put right by the Labor Team in Canberra.
Subhada Das
Beaconsfield WA
13 October 2008
___________________________I believe that the Government's Green Paper on carbon pollution reduction does not go far enough. Also, we can't just focus on carbon dioxide. What about methane and all the other greenhouse gases. We need to reduce our use of them too. I am prepared to do my bit to combat climate change; most Australians are also prepared to take strong action.
Jaden Harris
North Curl Curl
NSW 13 October 2008
________________________________The Australian Labor Party must be commended that they are governing for the needy citizens of Australia, unlike the Liberal government which tended to look after the well-off Australians only.
Markham Ryland
Kallangur QLD
13 October 2008
______________________________I think that the financial situation in Australia is good. Our banks are good so what is all the panic about. There is too much panic talk eg. meltdowns, crisis etc. The media is having a field day with all of this and it is all fueling this irrational fear that is going around. Things are not that bad; the sky is not going to fall in. In fact, people should be seeing the stockmarket for example as an opportunity to buy stocks at a lower price which in turn will start to drive the markets higher and things will start to improve. This is how I see the situation.
Sue Fisher
Brighton VIC
12 October 2008
________________________________The PM’s interview with Kerry O’Brien was terrific - he did not buy into personal fears and tunnel vision at all. All party spokespeople need to
follow Kevin’s lead on this. Confident and positive language is exactly what we need to
undermine the fear and panic merchants, especially by journalists who have bought
into it and keep driving it. Thank
goodness the country is being led but such a good team.
Helen
Daintree
Karragarra
Island QLD
11 October 2008
_________________________Continually of late, I am even more disgusted by the blatant hypocrisy
of the Liberal Party in regard to pensioner's payments, and their criticism of
the current Government. During their prolonged term, they did nothing to bring
payments to a liveable level. Mr Menzies and the Liberals spent the funds that
were to be held to fund the aged pension at a reasonable level. Hence why
Australians were paying substantially higher income tax than people in other
developed countries, and why many Seniors were not encouraged to plan and save
for retirement years.
Ray Jenkins
Carnegie VIC
11 October 2008
__________________________As a 28 year-old, last year's election was the first time I became actively engaged and interested in policy and initiatives being put forward by the parties. At that time, having a particular interest in the education policy, I especially noted the "education revolution" put forward by Labor. Having watched the 7.30 Report last night (9/10/08), I was extremely impressed with the leadership, strength, composure, and appropriate responses of Kevin Rudd on the financial situation across the globe and in Australia. I felt it important to write in to say, for the first time in a long time, I felt a leading politician was responding in very appropriate ways that are needed by the Australian society.
Emma Liversidge
Gold Coast QLD
10 October 2008
_______________________________Update the public holidays so they are relevant. Out with Labor Day and the Queen's Birthday and in with Environment Day and Kokoda Day. Some say the States decide this things but a clear lead from the Federal Government would get things moving in the right direction.
Bill Adams
West Lakes Shore SA
10 October 2008
_____________________________I just saw the PM interviewed by Kerry O'Brien and was very impressed with his responses in regards to the growing economic crisis. I responded to his commitment to true leadership and to avoiding political commentary. There is too much fear mongering in modern politics and I am surprised that Mr O'Brien continued to ask for your financial predictions and fears. He should know better than to ask irresponsible questions. Keep up the great work - 10 months strong!
Matthew Neilson
Montrose VIC
9 October 2008
_____________________________________
When President Nixon took the US dollar off the gold standard in 1973, the monetary system took on the now common behaviour of instability. This is very well known but governments don't want to know as it makes it too simple to solve the present problems. So just go back onto the gold standard. Look at the historic price of gold for the two hundred years before 1973 and thereafter.
Davin Scott
Devonport TAS
9 October 2008
_______________________________
I think the financial crisis is the result
of deregulation and globalisation. It is the greed that has put us in this
position. I hear of the clever antics of those with wealth and power who will locate
to areas anywhere in the world to be free of responsibility to maximise their wealth.
If we must persist in this globalisation, there needs to be globalisation in
laws to ensure trade can be refused if there is evidence of pollution and or
exploitation of any sort.
Margaret Moir
Berri SA
8 October 2008
_________________________________
It is impossible not to notice the undue prominence given on ABC TV and radio to Malcolm Turnbull. This even amounts to him being given priority over the PM on many issues. While recognising Turnbull is the opposition leader and needs media time, he should be treated as such and not presented as the defacto PM. I cannot speak for listeners and viewers in other states, but it is glaringly obvious in Queensland.
William Sams
Sunrise Beach QLD
8 October 2008
____________________ Regarding the forthcoming review of pensions, I trust the Government will consider the plight of all welfare recipients and not just the Aged Pensioners. Any increase in pension payments should be extended to all those relying on income support, including the unemployed. As a sole parent studying full time, I also am struggling. I would argue that my household costs are greater than an aged pensioner with no dependents and my studies and caring responsibilities make it very difficult to add to my income with paid employment. I am a widow, so receive no support either financially or emotionally from my child's father.
Helen Franklin
Ballarat VIC
7 October 2008
____________________________I came across Bill Henson's photography when my daughter was doing Art
for the HSC and her photographs were likened to his. I felt that his portrayal
of youth was touching, personal and deeply insightful. As a mother, educator
and psychologist I was not at all offended nor concerned and I certainly did
not feel that he had transgressed the boundaries of what should be acceptable
in our society. Sure some of his photos are confrontational, but great art
often is. Sadly, some adults will always be sexually attracted to young
children; this is of great concern and we have a duty to do whatever we can to
protect them from harm. But censoring Henson's photos will not make a scrap of
difference to this outcome.
Susan Owens
Balmain NSW
7 October 2008
___________________________Federal and Sate Labor governments have recently made a commitment to fast-track infrastructure projects in order to shore up our country against recession. I think this is a good move but would like to be assured that these projects will be built in such a way that no significant increase in greenhouse gas emissions is brought about. Large infrastructure projects will require large amounts of energy for their construction. I suggest the Government commit to building-in renewable energy generation as part of the infrastructure plan. This would mean setting aside enough money for each project to build its own power source, which could go on providing energy long after the the project is completed. If we are serious about trying to prevent catastrophic climate change, then we must think about how greenhouse gases can be reduced for everything we do.
Heather Cousland
Ashwood VIC
6 October 2008
___________________________Prime Minister Rudd has called for a check on the greed mentality of banks and other financial institutions, and the corporate sector. Currently there is a volatile cannibalistic mentality adopted by those who should have been taught the dangers of "greed is good." Greed leads to corruption and abuse of the law. Would the Liberal Party have been so honest in this time of crisis?
William Boeder
Rosebery TAS
5 October 2008
____________________ My beloved wife of 43 years (she is 68) has been struck down with a major stroke, and has to go into full care nursing - probably for the rest of her life. My comment is to point out the huge gap that lies between physically incapacitated people who need full care, and those people who need full aged care. At present there is no differentiation in public care facilities between these two groups. Consequently my wife, who is mentally sound and not incontinent, is placed with people who generally are suffering dementia and incontinent. This is a terrible situation for her, and many others like her. We desperately need separate full care facilities for those younger people who need full care. Our aged care facilities are just that - 'aged' care - and are soul destroying institutions for people such as my wife and the many younger people who are in her position (eg there is one woman stroke victim of 21 in an 'aged care' facility) .
Peter Williams
Mount Hutton NSW
4 October 2008
__________________________Good on you Labor! Being part of a dedicated team that formed a Community Centre to supply some basic services to this "isolated" district, it was refreshing to receive the news from the Federal Member for the Seat of Flynn (Chris Trevor MP) that Labor had increased the amount available to associations like ours under the Volunteer Grants Program to $5000 and, more importantly, there is now a provision for associations to receive a grant to help out with volunteer petrol costs. Thanks for the help to struggling Community Associations such as ours.
Kevin Grose
Baffle Creek QLD
3 October 2008
____________________________I agree that to have children is a personal choice. Why should some-one else pay for you to have an income while you are off work building yourself a family. If you cannot afford kids, you should not have any or you should get yourself a second job. The welfare system is still there for the needy and the greedy, but everyone else please fund your baby time from your own resources.
Olive Weir
Brisbane QLD
3 October 2008
_________________________With the push to get new nurses into the health care system, why don't we look inside it and bring it up to a level playing field first. Nurses in the aged care system have the lowest wages, the worst benefits, and worst conditions. We say we are looking at improving care to our growing aged sector, so why not start there and make sure that they have the best possible care available. Happy aged care nurses would be a great start.
Col Myers
Springwood QLD
3 October 2008
____________________ I wish life could be easier for the not so fortunate. I am so sick of being poor, and renting privately. Hurry along with well designed community housing - there are so many empty buildings around. Why do cashed up folk have to own so many properties, most of which remain empty for most the the year. Greed is not good; Gordon got it wrong.
Pamela Oberman
Coolangatta QLD
3 October 2008
___________________________I am sick of advertising still using the imperial system. We have been metric for 40 years and still things like televisions are advertised as 46". The metric system should be the mandatory primary description in advertising, with the option of providing the imperial version.
Andrew Hilton
Carindale QLD
2 October 2008
__________________________I agree with Senator John Faulkner about reducing senate terms from 6 years to 4 years and at the same time come in line with the House of Reps. This should have happened years ago.
Greg Thomson
Brassall QLD
2 October 2008
___________________________I welcome the report into paid maternity leave; my only concern is that it will not be implemented soon enough. I am a 29 year-old women with many friends having recently started a family or about to start. I know that paid maternity leave will definitely have a profound effect on their health and wellbeing. Australia was one of the first countries to give women the vote and I hope that paid maternity leave is implemented very quickly in Australia so we can hold our head up in the Equal Opportunity arena again.
Elisabeth Backhouse
Melbourne VIC
1 October 2008
______________________________My wife and I are currently renting and saving up to buy our first home. We have already saved some but because of tax on the interest of our savings it has been hard to keep up with property values. When I heard about the First Home Savers Accounts, I thought finally we would get a break. But as I check the details of the FHSA I notice the requirement that we have save for at least for four years before we become eligible to withdraw money towards our house. This is too long for us to wait so we will miss out again. Yet it seems the wealthy can now set up accounts for each of their children and ensure they have a tax funded deposit for a home in years to come. Can I suggest removing the 4 year rule so the people who want to buy a house in the near future will also get some benefit; and ensure the savings in the account come from 'earned income' of the individual rather than contributions from elsewhere (ie rich parents).
Bengt Johansson
Mosman NSW
1 October 2008
____________________________My concern is too much happening too quickly for people to have time to digest, think about, and hopefully appreciate. My 34 year-old university educated son said that he felt Labor was not good at getting across the good work they are doing. I have been thrilled to have Labor finally back in power but am so aware that the media is basically still run by owners who are pro-Liberal. To stay in power and achieve the goals we require, we need to get the correct (truthful) information to all people.
Margaret Moir
Berri SA
30 September 2008
________________________The only choice the Government has on climate change is large cuts in greenhouse gases quickly. There is no time left for "balance". Whatever the recommendations Ross Garnaut delivers, the governments objective must be to keep CO2 under 450 parts per million. My vote for Kevin Rudd was for this purpose alone. If the sea level rises, I will be one of the first to lose my house and I would like to think that the only person I had to blame was Howard.
Geoff Kennedy
Apollo Bay VIC
30 September 2008
__________________________I think the Government should appoint a roving ambassador for climate change to get other countries on board.
Jill Storch
Huonville TAS
30 September 2008
________________________________Please consider carefully before making any commitment to government funded maternity leave payments. I for one do not approve of my tax dollars being spent to support somebody else's personal lifestyle decisions. Having children is a choice many couples make and it's a wonderful thing to have a a child/children. But it is a personal choice and tax dollars should be used for something more productive than buffering a couples bank account because of their personal choice to have a baby. I think many Australians need to realise that their decisions are their own, and they need to take responsibility for these decisions. Nobody is forced to have a baby, therefore it is a choice, and therefore these people should be supporting themselves financially.
Gary Fox
Darwin NT
29 September 2008
_____________________________________Every year in NSW there are 40,000 emergency admissions related to alcohol and drug abuse. I suggest that, instead of having more hospital beds, the Minister should ask these patient pay for their admission so they can learn a lesson. People have to take responsibility for their own actions - not ask the health department and taxpayers to pick up the bill.
Jennie Rutter
Gladesville NSW
28 September 2008
________________________________Yes, I voted Labor and fully support Mr Rudd's overseas trips. I can't believe the ignorance of those that can't see the necessity of these. Furthermore Julie Gillard, wow! Truly, I have so much respect and admiration for her. From first hearing her on television last year, she continues to impress. Truly a brilliant and very clever lady. Whilst Julia Gillard is in the forefront, I believe Labour can do no wrong. I hope many have the intelligence to see this.
Gabrielle Buckle
Calamvale QLD
28 September 2008
_____________________________Is "short selling" a Weapon of Mass Destruction! I cannot believe that we can have such a system in place that gives a tool that someone can use to bring down an economy! Terrorist groups seem to have ample funds, so isn't it possible for them to target large companies through the "short selling tool" and destroy them and at the same time make huge profits. They can then use these profits to target more companies! So is the terrorists ultimate "Weapon of Mass Destruction" the anti-market tool "short selling" whose only goal is to bring down a company's value.
Norm Pietersz
Sydney NSW
28 September 2008
___________________________I have sent both Mr Nelson and Mr Turnbull an email recently explaining that they had eleven years to give pensioners an increase but chose not to. I also told them that I had written to both Mr Howard and Mr Costello on three separate occasions in 2007, pleading and begging for an increase in the disability pension and to stop blaming the Labor Party for the predicament that we pensioners are currently in. I also had a go at them for the way in which the Liberal politicians are always shouting insults and abusing the Labor politicians, both verbally and psychologically. Why can't they all work together for the betterment of this country and its people.
Cheryl Bowden
Mackay QLD
27 September 2008
_________________________I and most of the people I know are disgusted with Turnbull. Approximately 3 months or so before their ship sank at the 2007 election, when he was Environment Minister, he saw fit to grant some millions of taxpayer dollars to a company to produce a "rain making machine." I think you would have better chance producing rain with a dance! Turnbull should be asked a few questions on this issue to enlighten the taxpayer!
Issac Lean
Mascot NSW
26 September 2008
__________________________Whilst the USA financial meltdown is disastrous, I suggest that the ALP Government push the fact that threats can also provide opportunities. For example, the issues surrounding climate change could see the emergence of a new financial order where ethics are the new order rather than greed. The Labor Government can in such ways engender hope in the community with a realistic vision for the future.
Jill Storch
Huonville TAS
26 September 2008
__________________________The simple answer on how to stave off a banking crisis here. We were given the answer way back in 1911 by a politician from Tasmania called O'Malley, an ex American banker. He warned our parliament that we should have our own people's bank or we would constantly be in the hands of American financiers for our borrowings. He convinced our other politicians after a lot of argument and our own bank the Commonwealth opened in Melbourne. That same bank financed us through World War I at an interest rate of about half a percent. The Bank amongst other things financed the Trans Continental Railway and many more government projects at lower interest rates as well as the general public into homes and businesses. We must get our own people's back again for the good of all Australians and get out of the hands of the US financiers and their fairy floss currency.
Frank Crichlow
Carrara QLD
26 September 2008
_________________________I would like to congratulate the Labor Government on the initiative to give tax relief to families for expenditure in educating their kids. But I'd like to see it extended to those families whose university age children do not qualify for assistance. Being PAYG employees, we struggled to send our kids to uni while more affluent people's kids qualified for subsidies because their parents were able to write off expenses. We didn't mind paying out for our kids, but a bit of help in the way of a tax concession for doing so would have made a huge difference.
Mary Langler
Park Ridge South QLD
26 September 2008
__________________________Welfare handouts encourage family breakups. Stats now show that more
than half of all families break up and with government ready and willing to
fund "escape plans" for unhappy partners it's no wonder. I'm no fan
of the solo parent family as it is twice as costly to the nation as the old
fashioned way of life; viz Mum Dad and the kids. I realise of course that some of the best Australians are solo parents or children of. But I think governments should park the welfare money gravy train at the top of the cliff and spend some of it educating folks to be better able to look after themselves and so
avoid welfare dependency. If Government welfare programs actually decrease the percentage
of folks living on welfare, then it's money well spent.
Olive Weir
Brisbane
QLD
26 September 2008
_________________________Malcolm Turnbull has always liked to hear the sound of his own voice. He starred in the debating team at school and thinks this is just one more debate to be won. He will say whatever he thinks will bring him the most approbation because he has no investment.
Barbara Fahey
Toormina NSW
25 September 2008
______________________I congratulate the government for the brilliant idea of reforming the Medicare Levey Surcharge. I believe strongly in the wonderful public health system in Australia, even though I work in the private health system. I have paid the surcharge in the past because I would rather contribute to general revenue than the massive profits of insurance companies. They bully and control hospitals and patients by their deals with individual health care groups (such as which items they'll pay for, how long patients can stay, etc) They are dangerously close to copying the US style. Keep up your genius reform thinking. The support on the ground is overwhelming.
Colleen Coghlan
Prahran VIC
24 September 2008
____________________________The Opposition wants to spend more than a billion dollars on an increase to the aged pension. Senior Australians are not the only ones relying on the Government to meet increasing costs of living and financial pressures. What about Australia's students? These young people - the key drivers of Australia's economic future - are expected to live on less than $180 per week. That's $100 per week less than those on the aged pension. Something tells me the Opposition are not really interested in the people and their well-being - this is a cheap political stunt (actually its not cheap at all) that's about buying votes - not compassion or a fair go.
Iain Murchland
Pasadena SA
24 September 2008
_____________________________I am writing about pensions. I believe that the tax cuts given on 1 July were wrong. Well off people received tax cuts who didn't need them. I look at the problem, however, more as an intergenerational problem. So called young families will be well off when they retire because of Paul Keating's super guarantee. Today's old age pensioners didn't have such a plan. It is wrong that the money goes to younger people rather than older people.
Hugh Brooker
Pendle Hill NSW
24 September 2008
___________________________I watched today's Parliament sitting, and I was thinking: what is the fuss about the $30 pension increase, with the Opposition barking like a dog. Eleven years under Howard's vote-buying policy has created a welfare state and people no longer have the work ethic to save their money for their old age. The government has to provide from birth to death. In the meantime, we have broken roads, hospitals and schools, a shortage in skilled labor, etc. A shortsighted Howard government created all the mess; it is time to clean up and making this country a creative working nation. I think the pension should be indexed by how many years people have worked and how much tax they have paid.
Jennie Rutter
Gladesville NSW
24 September 2008
_________________________How can we trust the current leader of the Opposition when, as the Howard Government minister responsible for the environment, he approved & condoned the discharge of toxins into a turtle breeding habitat situated in the Great Barrier Reef marine Park adjacent to an internationally recognised pristine beach at Agnes Water in Queensland. Shame on you Mr Turnbull!
Kevin Grose
Baffle Creek QLD
23 September 2008
____________________
I have just read a comment by a Liberal politician by the name of George Brandis stating that: "in the Howard, Costello government pensioners always had a few dollars in their pockets". Well, having been a pensioner since 1996 I have never had a few dollars in my pocket. Where this character is coming from is beyond me. As far as I'm concerned, the man is an ostrich.
Vincent Sargeant
Lara VIC
23 September 2008
______________________________As Kevin Rudd is being damned if he does (UN), damned if he doesn't (Japan) travel overseas to important meetings and the like - why don't we get rid of the GG post and have a President. Then the President can go to the non-essential, more ceremonial functions, leaving the Prime Minister to run the country. As Malcolm Turnbull is our self-annointed #1 Republican, he must surely agree to this and we will finally get the Republic we want.
Duane Wilson
Bunbury WA
23 September 2008
__________________________Mr Turnbull says his new front line political line-up reflects a strong Coalition emphasis on economic management. Indeed, a check of the educational expertise of the people involved reveals:
Malcolm Turnbull – lawyer (Leader of Opposition); Julie Bishop, lawyer (Shadow Treasurer); Joe Hockey, lawyer (Shadow Finance); Helen Coonan, lawyer (Shadow Foreign Affairs); Greg Hunt, lawyer (Shadow Climate Change); Christopher Pyne, lawyer (Shadow Education).Such Liberal fiscal expertise has the economy fully covered. Lipsticked pigs might also soon fly!
Lew
Louthean
North Fremantle WA
22 September 2008
____________________________The latest ALP email newsletter is full of wonderful achievements and programs locking into place. Is there something wrong with our media connection? This stuff is simply not getting into print or getting air time. Most people I have spoken to since returning from a 3 months overseas trip say the government has done nothing. What's gone wrong ? We need to get the media on the ball.
Mark Oddie
Sorrento VIC
22 September 2008
_________________________It is great to see Julia Gillard on the television answering questions. I admire her quiet confident manner but can I suggest not getting caught up with the string pulling from the opposition and continue to be assured that they will defeat themselves because they really have not left the notion behind that they are the only ones who can govern the country.
Margaret Moir
Berri SA
22 September 2008
___________________________Congratulations. I have read the new workplace relations article and applaud the return of 'common sense'. This is obviously the outcome of extensive talks and negotiations. Go, you good people, go!
Judy Bevan
Bundaberg QLD
21 September 2008
________________________Please help to ensure in this financial crisis that he people who made the money creating the problem pay for it and not the common Australian taxpayer. Too often in capitalism the few who profit on the way up, escape, and leave the rest of us to wear the clean up bill.
Terry Osland
Singleton NSW
21 September 2008
_________________________As a member of the Labor Party and a resident of Country NSW, I wish to express my concern in relation to holding a meeting of Local Government leaders. In NSW, there are a high proportion of rural councils which represent very small constituencies and are disproportionately represented by the dominant Nationals. Do you really believe that you would get an unbiased