Friday 4 May 2007
Who's to blame for China's emissions?
Last night I was listening to the BBC and pricked my ears up to a story on the paradox of China's emissions.
As more manufacturing moves to "low-cost" countries such as China, the emissions caused by the manufacturing process are blamed on China, not the country of origin. In this case, dryer balls (balls you put in your clothes dryer to speed up the drying process, thus reducing emissions) were invented in the UK but are manufactured in China.
And while workers in the Chinese factories have very little emissions because of their lifestyle, the effects of the manufacturing process are ultimately felt around the world.
Ultimately, an emission is an emission, and it affects global warming regardless of where it is produced. The global community, and in particular the West, will need to look carefully at how emission reduction programs are measured and managed to ensure there is full accountability for the affect on the planet.
As more manufacturing moves to "low-cost" countries such as China, the emissions caused by the manufacturing process are blamed on China, not the country of origin. In this case, dryer balls (balls you put in your clothes dryer to speed up the drying process, thus reducing emissions) were invented in the UK but are manufactured in China.
And while workers in the Chinese factories have very little emissions because of their lifestyle, the effects of the manufacturing process are ultimately felt around the world.
Ultimately, an emission is an emission, and it affects global warming regardless of where it is produced. The global community, and in particular the West, will need to look carefully at how emission reduction programs are measured and managed to ensure there is full accountability for the affect on the planet.
Thursday 3 May 2007
Howard's character on the line.....again
The unacceptably stupid and turgid comments from Bill Heffernan about Julia Gillard are one thing. The Prime Minister's inability to hose him down straight up is another.
John Howard's character continues to be called into question.
Why didn't Howard react quickly after the initial uproar about Heffernan's comments? Does the PM actually agree with them? Did Howard hope the storm would actually be a mere puff of redneck wind? Is he sick of his Ministers painting the Tories as a bunch of Neanderthals, but was just too tired to be bothered?
It's again a question of character, attitude and ability...
John Howard's character continues to be called into question.
Why didn't Howard react quickly after the initial uproar about Heffernan's comments? Does the PM actually agree with them? Did Howard hope the storm would actually be a mere puff of redneck wind? Is he sick of his Ministers painting the Tories as a bunch of Neanderthals, but was just too tired to be bothered?
It's again a question of character, attitude and ability...
Wednesday 2 May 2007
Innovating Innovation
Kim Carr's release last week of our new directions for innovation is another example of powerful policy development on our side of politics.
Australia must become smarter in the way it plans, acts and integrates areas of knowledge generation, business research and development incentives, technology take-up, international collaboration, government procurement, university-business links, improving the skills base, establishing innovation priorities, strengthening national governance and streamlining of programs.
Our key initiatives include:
■ Investing up to $200 million over four years to establish 10 Enterprise Connect innovation centres to connect business people with new ideas.
■ Restoring the chief scientist to a full-time position, recognising the fundamental contribution science makes to the nation's wellbeing.
■ Establishing industry innovation councils for key sectors to support a strategic and long-term approach to innovation, and to ensure that Labor's innovation initiatives meet industry needs.
■ Bringing the key policy areas of industry, innovation science and research together within one department.
With these initiatives, Australia can not only compete more effectively on a global scale, but lead the world in both introducing new inventions and taking clever ideas in one field and applying them to others. This will mean enhanced productivity, generation of export dollars that drive real value through the economy, and the construction of new employment sectors based on a more skilled and creative workforce.
Australia must become smarter in the way it plans, acts and integrates areas of knowledge generation, business research and development incentives, technology take-up, international collaboration, government procurement, university-business links, improving the skills base, establishing innovation priorities, strengthening national governance and streamlining of programs.
Our key initiatives include:
■ Investing up to $200 million over four years to establish 10 Enterprise Connect innovation centres to connect business people with new ideas.
■ Restoring the chief scientist to a full-time position, recognising the fundamental contribution science makes to the nation's wellbeing.
■ Establishing industry innovation councils for key sectors to support a strategic and long-term approach to innovation, and to ensure that Labor's innovation initiatives meet industry needs.
■ Bringing the key policy areas of industry, innovation science and research together within one department.
With these initiatives, Australia can not only compete more effectively on a global scale, but lead the world in both introducing new inventions and taking clever ideas in one field and applying them to others. This will mean enhanced productivity, generation of export dollars that drive real value through the economy, and the construction of new employment sectors based on a more skilled and creative workforce.
Australia a "Strategic Nuclear Concern"
I've recently been pondering John Howard's rationale for the rapid development of a nuclear industry in Australia. His statements over the past few months and the insistent catapulting approach (after 11 years in office - there has been plenty of prior opportunity...) lead me to wonder about the development of home grown nuclear weapons.
Does Howard want Australia to have nuclear weapons? Does he see a nuclear Australia as a deterrent against invaders wanting to ransack our mineral wealth? Does the Prime Minister see Australia's role as Deputy Sherriff in the South Pacific expanding to one of "middle power in Asia with big stick?"
The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute is certainly concerned about Australia becoming a country that is a "Strategic Nuclear Concern". According to SIPRI, "these countries have components of a nuclear fuel cycle and therefore play an important role in the context of nuclear nonproliferation while having the technological potential for developing nuclear weapons."
Australia has had a leading role in the international non-proliferation movement over the past 35 years. Why is it acceptable to now trade in this reputation for perceived short term economic or defence gains?
The challenge for John Howard is to come clean on his motives for the development of a nuclear industry that can process nuclear grade weapons material. He cannot attempt to hide behind the global warming debate, a debate in which he is both late to and agnostic.
I ask again: Does John Howard want Australia to build it's own nuclear weapons capability?
Does Howard want Australia to have nuclear weapons? Does he see a nuclear Australia as a deterrent against invaders wanting to ransack our mineral wealth? Does the Prime Minister see Australia's role as Deputy Sherriff in the South Pacific expanding to one of "middle power in Asia with big stick?"
The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute is certainly concerned about Australia becoming a country that is a "Strategic Nuclear Concern". According to SIPRI, "these countries have components of a nuclear fuel cycle and therefore play an important role in the context of nuclear nonproliferation while having the technological potential for developing nuclear weapons."
Australia has had a leading role in the international non-proliferation movement over the past 35 years. Why is it acceptable to now trade in this reputation for perceived short term economic or defence gains?
The challenge for John Howard is to come clean on his motives for the development of a nuclear industry that can process nuclear grade weapons material. He cannot attempt to hide behind the global warming debate, a debate in which he is both late to and agnostic.
I ask again: Does John Howard want Australia to build it's own nuclear weapons capability?
Tuesday 1 May 2007
Newspoll Results
Good morning Friends,
Good news again in the latest Newspoll.
We're down a couple of points in the two-party preferred of two weeks ago but significantly are still tracking on the same results as the beginning of March. Only 18% of people are dissatisfied with my performance as Leader of the Opposition and 46% of those polled think I would make the better Prime Minister.
The NewsCorp Tories have asserted these results are giving Howard a scent of a chance. He's always had a sniff - PM for 11 years and we need to win 16 seats. We ignore the political realities at our peril.
Still, the figures continue to be encouraging and there is a very long way to go until we can claim victory on election night.
Good news again in the latest Newspoll.
We're down a couple of points in the two-party preferred of two weeks ago but significantly are still tracking on the same results as the beginning of March. Only 18% of people are dissatisfied with my performance as Leader of the Opposition and 46% of those polled think I would make the better Prime Minister.
The NewsCorp Tories have asserted these results are giving Howard a scent of a chance. He's always had a sniff - PM for 11 years and we need to win 16 seats. We ignore the political realities at our peril.
Still, the figures continue to be encouraging and there is a very long way to go until we can claim victory on election night.
Monday 30 April 2007
Media Coverage following the Conference
I had some time this morning to examine the media coverage following the National Conference.
The Australian was laughable:
Gillard denies Labor IR policy is anti-business
Janet Albrechtsen: Kev turns Left after all
Paul Kelly: A bizarre blast from the past
Union deals to be 'forced' on bosses
Subsidy plan for energy savers
Editorial: Labor looks for its future in the past
Glenn Milne: PM buoyed as ALP caves in to unions
Yet over at the Daily Telegraph (News Corp again), the stance is somewhat more disjointed:
Rudd in Octopussy's grip (that's Fair Work Australia according to "one employer group". Is that like "the man in the street said"?)
No apologies over preselections: Rudd
Rudd: Uranium policy 'not hypocritical'
Downer dreams of being treasurer (Surely this thought alone will get us elected!)
Business pounds Rudd's plans for the workplace
Like it or not, PM will deliver nuclear power (another election winning topic)
Finally, The Age is more balanced:
Nuclear opposition unites ALP
Rudd defends uranium u-turn
Rudd pitches $300m green home loan plan
Rudd's hijacking of Menzies legacy doomed
How Rudd won the day in party's uranium debate
PM almost confesses he's in strife (Thank you Michelle Gratton, he is, indeed, in strife friends)
The Australian was laughable:
Gillard denies Labor IR policy is anti-business
Janet Albrechtsen: Kev turns Left after all
Paul Kelly: A bizarre blast from the past
Union deals to be 'forced' on bosses
Subsidy plan for energy savers
Editorial: Labor looks for its future in the past
Glenn Milne: PM buoyed as ALP caves in to unions
Yet over at the Daily Telegraph (News Corp again), the stance is somewhat more disjointed:
Rudd in Octopussy's grip (that's Fair Work Australia according to "one employer group". Is that like "the man in the street said"?)
No apologies over preselections: Rudd
Rudd: Uranium policy 'not hypocritical'
Downer dreams of being treasurer (Surely this thought alone will get us elected!)
Business pounds Rudd's plans for the workplace
Like it or not, PM will deliver nuclear power (another election winning topic)
Finally, The Age is more balanced:
Nuclear opposition unites ALP
Rudd defends uranium u-turn
Rudd pitches $300m green home loan plan
Rudd's hijacking of Menzies legacy doomed
How Rudd won the day in party's uranium debate
PM almost confesses he's in strife (Thank you Michelle Gratton, he is, indeed, in strife friends)
Leaving on a jet plane...
Look friends, Mr Howard can whinge and moan all he likes about handing power back to the unions. The reality is that we will implement a more equitable industrial relations system that will provide an appropriate level of support for Australian families whilst promoting productivity and assisting Australia to compete on the global stage.
Make no mistake. Howard will attempt to bring the debate down to his lowest common denominator. i.e. Labor = Unions = Bad. It's as base as that.
Meanwhile I'm off around the country campaigning on the back of what has been a disciplined, policy-driven National Conference.
I believe Australian Labor demonstrated it is ready to govern. And I am ready to lead that Government.
Make no mistake. Howard will attempt to bring the debate down to his lowest common denominator. i.e. Labor = Unions = Bad. It's as base as that.
Meanwhile I'm off around the country campaigning on the back of what has been a disciplined, policy-driven National Conference.
I believe Australian Labor demonstrated it is ready to govern. And I am ready to lead that Government.
Saturday 28 April 2007
Forward with Fairness
Friends I was happy to announce our IR policy today at the National Conference. The policy is all about driving Australia forward whilst supporting workers rights. This includes 10 National Employment Standards and modern industrial awards.
Federal Labor’s 10 National Employment Standards
A Rudd Labor Government will guarantee the following minimum standards in law for all Australian employees:
1. Hours of work
Under Federal Labor, the standard working week for a full time employee will be 38 hours. Employees may be required to work additional hours, but cannot be required to work unreasonable additional hours.
2. Parental leave
Federal Labor recognises that many families want to have a parent provide all or most of the care for a child during the first two years of the child’s life. A Rudd Labor Government will guarantee that both parents have the right to separate periods of up to 12 months of unpaid leave associated with the birth of a baby. Where families prefer one parent to take a longer period of leave, that parent will be entitled to request up to an additional 12 months of unpaid parental leave from their employer.
The employer may only refuse the request for the additional 12 months leave on reasonable business grounds. This will guarantee that Australian working families have the flexibility of up to 24 months unpaid leave to provide care for their child.
3. Flexible work for parents
A Rudd Labor Government will guarantee a right for parents to request flexible work arrangements until their child reaches school age. Employers will only be able to refuse any request on reasonable business grounds.
4. Annual leave
All full time non casual employees will be guaranteed 4 weeks paid annual leave each year. Part time employees will be entitled to 4 weeks annual leave paid pro rata. Shift workers will be entitled to an additional paid week of annual leave.
5. Personal, Carers and Compassionate leave
All full time non casual employees will be entitled to 10 days paid personal and carers leave each year. Part time employees will be entitled to 10 days personal leave paid pro rata. These employees will also be entitled to 2 days paid compassionate leave on the death or serious illness of a family member or a person the employee lives with. All employees will be entitled to an additional 2 days of unpaid personal leave where required for genuine caring purposes and family emergencies.
6. Community Service Leave
Employees will be entitled to leave for prescribed community service activities, for example paid leave for jury service and reasonable unpaid leave for emergency services duties.
7. Public holidays
Federal Labor’s industrial relations system will guarantee public holidays. Where an employee works on a public holiday, they will be entitled to an appropriate penalty rate of pay or other compensation. This will be set out in the applicable award.
8. Information in the workplace
Employers must provide all new employees with a Fair Work Information Statement which contains prescribed information about the employee’s rights and entitlements at work, including the right of the employee to choose whether to be or not to be a member of a union and where to go for information and assistance.
9. Termination of Employment & Redundancy
All employees will be entitled to fair notice of termination. Employees who are made redundant and who are employed in workplaces with 15 or more employees will also be entitled to redundancy pay as determined by the Australian Industrial Relations Commission in the 2004 Redundancy Test Case.
10. Long Service Leave
As part of its commitment to national industrial relations laws, Federal Labor will work with the States to develop nationally consistent long service leave entitlements. Under Federal Labor, long service leave entitlements accrued under these arrangements will be protected in the transition to nationally consistent long service leave entitlements so Australian employees are not disadvantaged.
Federal Labor’s Modern, Simple Industry Awards
Federal Labor’s new awards will provide industry relevant detail to Labor’s National Employment Standards and may only contain a further 10 minimum standards:
1. Minimum wages. This will include skill based classifications and career structures, incentive based payments and bonuses, wage rates and other arrangements for apprentices and trainees;
2. The type of work performed, for example whether an employee is permanent or casual, and the facilitation of flexible working arrangements, particularly for workers with family responsibilities, including quality part time employment and job sharing;
3. Arrangements for when work is performed, including hours of work, rostering, rest breaks and meal breaks;
4. Overtime rates for employees working long hours;
5. Penalty rates for employees working unsocial, irregular or unpredictable hours, on weekends or public holidays, and as shift workers;
6. Provisions for minimum annualised wage or salary arrangements that have regard to the patterns of work in an occupation, industry or enterprise as an alternative to the payment of penalty rates, with appropriate safeguards to ensure individual employees are not disadvantaged;
7. Allowances including reimbursement of expenses, higher duties and disability based payments;
8. Leave, leave loadings and the arrangements for taking leave;
9. Superannuation; and
10. Consultation, representation and dispute settling procedures.
Under Labor, award coverage will not be extended to cover those who are historically award free, such as managerial employees.
I urge you to read the full policy on the ALP website.
Federal Labor’s 10 National Employment Standards
A Rudd Labor Government will guarantee the following minimum standards in law for all Australian employees:
1. Hours of work
Under Federal Labor, the standard working week for a full time employee will be 38 hours. Employees may be required to work additional hours, but cannot be required to work unreasonable additional hours.
2. Parental leave
Federal Labor recognises that many families want to have a parent provide all or most of the care for a child during the first two years of the child’s life. A Rudd Labor Government will guarantee that both parents have the right to separate periods of up to 12 months of unpaid leave associated with the birth of a baby. Where families prefer one parent to take a longer period of leave, that parent will be entitled to request up to an additional 12 months of unpaid parental leave from their employer.
The employer may only refuse the request for the additional 12 months leave on reasonable business grounds. This will guarantee that Australian working families have the flexibility of up to 24 months unpaid leave to provide care for their child.
3. Flexible work for parents
A Rudd Labor Government will guarantee a right for parents to request flexible work arrangements until their child reaches school age. Employers will only be able to refuse any request on reasonable business grounds.
4. Annual leave
All full time non casual employees will be guaranteed 4 weeks paid annual leave each year. Part time employees will be entitled to 4 weeks annual leave paid pro rata. Shift workers will be entitled to an additional paid week of annual leave.
5. Personal, Carers and Compassionate leave
All full time non casual employees will be entitled to 10 days paid personal and carers leave each year. Part time employees will be entitled to 10 days personal leave paid pro rata. These employees will also be entitled to 2 days paid compassionate leave on the death or serious illness of a family member or a person the employee lives with. All employees will be entitled to an additional 2 days of unpaid personal leave where required for genuine caring purposes and family emergencies.
6. Community Service Leave
Employees will be entitled to leave for prescribed community service activities, for example paid leave for jury service and reasonable unpaid leave for emergency services duties.
7. Public holidays
Federal Labor’s industrial relations system will guarantee public holidays. Where an employee works on a public holiday, they will be entitled to an appropriate penalty rate of pay or other compensation. This will be set out in the applicable award.
8. Information in the workplace
Employers must provide all new employees with a Fair Work Information Statement which contains prescribed information about the employee’s rights and entitlements at work, including the right of the employee to choose whether to be or not to be a member of a union and where to go for information and assistance.
9. Termination of Employment & Redundancy
All employees will be entitled to fair notice of termination. Employees who are made redundant and who are employed in workplaces with 15 or more employees will also be entitled to redundancy pay as determined by the Australian Industrial Relations Commission in the 2004 Redundancy Test Case.
10. Long Service Leave
As part of its commitment to national industrial relations laws, Federal Labor will work with the States to develop nationally consistent long service leave entitlements. Under Federal Labor, long service leave entitlements accrued under these arrangements will be protected in the transition to nationally consistent long service leave entitlements so Australian employees are not disadvantaged.
Federal Labor’s Modern, Simple Industry Awards
Federal Labor’s new awards will provide industry relevant detail to Labor’s National Employment Standards and may only contain a further 10 minimum standards:
1. Minimum wages. This will include skill based classifications and career structures, incentive based payments and bonuses, wage rates and other arrangements for apprentices and trainees;
2. The type of work performed, for example whether an employee is permanent or casual, and the facilitation of flexible working arrangements, particularly for workers with family responsibilities, including quality part time employment and job sharing;
3. Arrangements for when work is performed, including hours of work, rostering, rest breaks and meal breaks;
4. Overtime rates for employees working long hours;
5. Penalty rates for employees working unsocial, irregular or unpredictable hours, on weekends or public holidays, and as shift workers;
6. Provisions for minimum annualised wage or salary arrangements that have regard to the patterns of work in an occupation, industry or enterprise as an alternative to the payment of penalty rates, with appropriate safeguards to ensure individual employees are not disadvantaged;
7. Allowances including reimbursement of expenses, higher duties and disability based payments;
8. Leave, leave loadings and the arrangements for taking leave;
9. Superannuation; and
10. Consultation, representation and dispute settling procedures.
Under Labor, award coverage will not be extended to cover those who are historically award free, such as managerial employees.
I urge you to read the full policy on the ALP website.
ALP Election Results
I'd like to congratulate all those who were successful in yesterday's elections for ALP National Secretary, ALP National Executive, and ALP National Women’s Network.
Tim Gartrell has been returned as ALP National Secretary.
The ALP National Executive will comprise: Sarah Abbott, Anthony Albanese, Mark Arbib, Carol Brown, Mark Butler, Kim Carr, Stephen Conroy, Joseph De Bruyn, Charlie Donnelly, Charlene Farmer, Luke Foley, Sharon Humphreys, Annette Hurley, Sue Lines, Bill Ludwig, Michael O’Connor, Bill Shorten, Ursula Stephens, Linda White and Michael Williamson
The ALP National Labor Women’s Network Executive will be: Michelle Bertossa, Elizabeth Blandthorn, Kylie Bowe, Sarah Burke, Sue Charchalis, Virginia Clarke, Deb Greene, Sarah Kaine, Charis Mullen, Naomi Porrovecchio, Jaala Pulford, Davina Quirke, Michelle Rowland, Catherine van Vliet and Monika Wheeler.
What a tremendous group of talented, committed people.
Tim Gartrell has been returned as ALP National Secretary.
The ALP National Executive will comprise: Sarah Abbott, Anthony Albanese, Mark Arbib, Carol Brown, Mark Butler, Kim Carr, Stephen Conroy, Joseph De Bruyn, Charlie Donnelly, Charlene Farmer, Luke Foley, Sharon Humphreys, Annette Hurley, Sue Lines, Bill Ludwig, Michael O’Connor, Bill Shorten, Ursula Stephens, Linda White and Michael Williamson
The ALP National Labor Women’s Network Executive will be: Michelle Bertossa, Elizabeth Blandthorn, Kylie Bowe, Sarah Burke, Sue Charchalis, Virginia Clarke, Deb Greene, Sarah Kaine, Charis Mullen, Naomi Porrovecchio, Jaala Pulford, Davina Quirke, Michelle Rowland, Catherine van Vliet and Monika Wheeler.
What a tremendous group of talented, committed people.
The Uranium Debate
Well friends, today is the day of our history defining uranium mining debate. I'm very confident of winning the vote - frankly, I've been surprised and impressed with the level of support I have received for changing the policy.
I'm looking forward to a spirited engagement, one in which we as a Party can be proud. Unlike the Tories, we don't hold our policy discussions in dusty, wood paneled rooms amongst mottled old men trying to make their mates rich.
Our debates are open, transparent and passionate. And the Australian people appreciate that.
Fresh Thinking. Now. For our future.
I'm looking forward to a spirited engagement, one in which we as a Party can be proud. Unlike the Tories, we don't hold our policy discussions in dusty, wood paneled rooms amongst mottled old men trying to make their mates rich.
Our debates are open, transparent and passionate. And the Australian people appreciate that.
Fresh Thinking. Now. For our future.
Friday 27 April 2007
The Party of the Future
Finally the air has cleared and I've kick-started Conference this morning.
“My name is Kevin, I'm from Queensland and I'm here to help"
One thing we know for certain is that the history of nations is made up of those who understand, anticipate and act on the challenges of the future. And those who do not. Those who instead bury their heads in the sand. Those who hope it will all just go away.
This election in just a few months time will be about the future versus the past.
And we friends are the party of the future.
And our opponents, friends, have become the party of the past.
When I look to the next decade, the future I see for Australia is one fundamentally shaped by the rise of China and the rise of India
The future I see for Australia is one in which our current mining boom does not last forever, and rather that simply being the lucky country , we will have to make our own luck.
The future I see for our country is also one challenged by long term energy security, climate change and its impact on water security, food security and national security.
I am an unabashed optimist when it comes to our country's long term future.
Australian people want prosperity but they want prosperity with a heart.
Mr Howard doesn't really believe in a single idea which didn't appear on black and white television.
No one is a bigger fan of Ward Cleaver than me, but I've got news for Mr Howard, the world has changed since Leave It To Beaver.
And to conceal his absence of ideas he's now increasingly driven by short-term politics in order to cling onto long-term political office.
As I've said to my colleagues on many occasions: we will not win this election on the basis of a protest vote against Mr Howard alone.
We can only win it on the basis of a positive vote for us - and our alternative plans for Australia's future.
We can build productivity growth through an education revolution, the application of new technologies, by freeing up our businesses from unnecessary regulation and by encouraging a new age of innovation - including our critical manufacturing industries.
I don't want to be a prime minister of a country that doesn't make things any more.
And we are capable of building this prosperity on the back of these reforms - without throwing the fair go out the back door.
Wednesday 21 March 2007
The footy season
It's that time of year when Australians close the back door to keep the drafts out, pop the telly on, find a cold beer in the fridge and settle back in their favourite comfy chair to watch the footy.
And what a season it will be.
On one hand we have a team that has won the past four grand finals - skilled, cocky and sure of themselves. Their captain has kicked countless goals on the run. He's been without fear getting in and under to get the ball out to his midfielders. Their backs have been solid and reliable with the ability to turn defence into attack.
Yet our team has been building quietly for a few years now. We've picked up a couple of excellent young draft picks, we've got a talented midfield that is young, fit and with the one key attribute every winning team needs - they can read the footy; they have vision on the run, they can see when to drive it straight through the corridor or to hold play up, waiting for the rush of onballers to come streaming past to carry the footy forward.
And our defence is a unit. Big, rangy, tough. Willing to run back into a pack with the flight of the ball. No fear.
And me? Well I play centre half forward. I've kicked a couple of bags full and I can bust a pack, giving our crumbers the chance to snap one on either foot. I say modestly I'm pretty good when we've got the wind behind us and we're in front. But I'm even better when it's wet and windy, the scores are close and we've got a sniff.
And I'm young and still developing.
Compare that to the team we're up against. Highly experienced but getting a bit slow. They can still pick up plenty of touches but their decision making is not as good as it was. They keep turning the ball over and our strong young side makes them pay, driving the footy deep into our forward line.
Yep. The footy season is back and I can't wait for that one day in September (or maybe October. Or November. Or December). Our chance to take the flag. Whatever the conditions, we'll be there. Standing strong. Focused. Skilled.
Better for the experience of the season and with that little extra vision and fitness to bring us home in front at the final siren.
And what a season it will be.
On one hand we have a team that has won the past four grand finals - skilled, cocky and sure of themselves. Their captain has kicked countless goals on the run. He's been without fear getting in and under to get the ball out to his midfielders. Their backs have been solid and reliable with the ability to turn defence into attack.
Yet our team has been building quietly for a few years now. We've picked up a couple of excellent young draft picks, we've got a talented midfield that is young, fit and with the one key attribute every winning team needs - they can read the footy; they have vision on the run, they can see when to drive it straight through the corridor or to hold play up, waiting for the rush of onballers to come streaming past to carry the footy forward.
And our defence is a unit. Big, rangy, tough. Willing to run back into a pack with the flight of the ball. No fear.
And me? Well I play centre half forward. I've kicked a couple of bags full and I can bust a pack, giving our crumbers the chance to snap one on either foot. I say modestly I'm pretty good when we've got the wind behind us and we're in front. But I'm even better when it's wet and windy, the scores are close and we've got a sniff.
And I'm young and still developing.
Compare that to the team we're up against. Highly experienced but getting a bit slow. They can still pick up plenty of touches but their decision making is not as good as it was. They keep turning the ball over and our strong young side makes them pay, driving the footy deep into our forward line.
Yep. The footy season is back and I can't wait for that one day in September (or maybe October. Or November. Or December). Our chance to take the flag. Whatever the conditions, we'll be there. Standing strong. Focused. Skilled.
Better for the experience of the season and with that little extra vision and fitness to bring us home in front at the final siren.
Santoro gone gone and gone
Anyone would think Santo Santoro had done something wrong. First he was dropped from the Ministry. Now he's leaving parliament.
This bloody game of smear and spear now has another major casualty. And its another Lib.
When will they ever learn!
This bloody game of smear and spear now has another major casualty. And its another Lib.
When will they ever learn!
Tuesday 13 March 2007
Santoro has to resign
I'm scratching my head here.
Ian Campbell is forced to resign because he had a meeting with Brian Burke.
Yet Santo Santoro buys $6,000 worth of shares in Brisbane biotech company CBio a month before he becomes Minister for Aging, then doesn't declare them, then divests them, then gives the proceeds to charity...
And it's ok for him to keep his job?
It reminds me of the episode "Five Votes Down" from The West Wing's first series. Toby has "accidentally" made $125,000 from some tech stocks that rose after his childhood mate gave a speech that lifted the price:
SAM
I got it!
MANDY
What?
SAM
Counsel’s office releases a statement through C.J. using the strongest possible language we make it very clear that there’s been no wrongdoing of any kind.
TOBY
Yes.
SAM
But to avoid even the appearance of impropriety, Toby has agreed to reduce his salary for one year to one dollar, and immediately cash out his stock issue thereby relieving the taxpayer of the burden.
Toby looks shocked.
BARTLET
Done.
TOBY
Wait.
LEO
Good, Sam.
SAM
Thank you.
TOBY
No, no, it’s not good. Actually, it stinks.
BARTLET
Toby, you’re a great writer, do you know that?
TOBY
Well, thank you very much sir.
BARTLET
Here, give me a hug.
TOBY
[looks pained] Leo!
BARTLET
Come on. Give us a hug. [hugs Toby] There you go
....
SAM
[to Toby] So, how do you feel there, big guy?
TOBY
[dryly] Like I just got screwed with my pants on.
SAM
Excellent.
Ian Campbell is forced to resign because he had a meeting with Brian Burke.
Yet Santo Santoro buys $6,000 worth of shares in Brisbane biotech company CBio a month before he becomes Minister for Aging, then doesn't declare them, then divests them, then gives the proceeds to charity...
And it's ok for him to keep his job?
It reminds me of the episode "Five Votes Down" from The West Wing's first series. Toby has "accidentally" made $125,000 from some tech stocks that rose after his childhood mate gave a speech that lifted the price:
SAM
I got it!
MANDY
What?
SAM
Counsel’s office releases a statement through C.J. using the strongest possible language we make it very clear that there’s been no wrongdoing of any kind.
TOBY
Yes.
SAM
But to avoid even the appearance of impropriety, Toby has agreed to reduce his salary for one year to one dollar, and immediately cash out his stock issue thereby relieving the taxpayer of the burden.
Toby looks shocked.
BARTLET
Done.
TOBY
Wait.
LEO
Good, Sam.
SAM
Thank you.
TOBY
No, no, it’s not good. Actually, it stinks.
BARTLET
Toby, you’re a great writer, do you know that?
TOBY
Well, thank you very much sir.
BARTLET
Here, give me a hug.
TOBY
[looks pained] Leo!
BARTLET
Come on. Give us a hug. [hugs Toby] There you go
....
SAM
[to Toby] So, how do you feel there, big guy?
TOBY
[dryly] Like I just got screwed with my pants on.
SAM
Excellent.
Monday 12 March 2007
Policy, policy, policy and more...
Policy.
I know I keep harping on it, but the Australian people expect more from their political leaders than just trite populism, smears and empty promises.
They want hard facts, clearly differentiated policy positions and a strong alternative government.
It's not about polls or popularity. I don't intend to be "popular", I intend to show policy leadership.
I know I keep harping on it, but the Australian people expect more from their political leaders than just trite populism, smears and empty promises.
They want hard facts, clearly differentiated policy positions and a strong alternative government.
It's not about polls or popularity. I don't intend to be "popular", I intend to show policy leadership.
The Phillip Adams View of History
I cannot believe the hide of Phillip Adams'.
To suggest John Howard has:
1. Shonked the intelligence prior to the war in Iraq
2. Ignored the human cost of the war
3. Defended the presidency of George W. Bush
4. Vilified the entire Democratic Party in the US
5. Failed to understand and act on the facts about global warming
6. Backed nuclear power without any thought to the consequences (environmental OR economic)
7. Waged war on asylum seekers
8. Accused asylum seekers of drowning their babies
9. Then remained indifferent to hundreds of drowned refugees
10. Opened a chain of Pacific prisons
11. Added razor wire to mainland concentration camps
12. Then trumpeted Australian values of tolerance, mateship and a fair go
13. Left David Hicks in Guantanamo for 5 years
14. Then pretended to intervene on Hicks' behalf
15. Had mercenaries trained in Dubai to attack the wharfies
16. Ensured the referendum on an independent Australia (aka The Republic) failed
17. Ignored the "Bringing Them Home" report on the stolen generation
18. Attacked the "black armband view" of Australian history
19. Refused to say "Sorry"
20. Attacked the ABC
21. Attacked the union movement
22. Attacked voluntary euthanasia
23. Stonewalled poor Peter Costello
24. Refused to debate me on television on the war in Iraq
25. Refused to debate me on in Parliament on the war in Iraq
...is to ignore the inexorable truth about the Prime Minister:
a. John Howard is highly moral and outlines the correct position on every issue
b. John Howard and his government are not past their prime
c. John Howard is a very clever politician and understands the Australian people implicitly
Shame on you Phillip Adams.
To suggest John Howard has:
1. Shonked the intelligence prior to the war in Iraq
2. Ignored the human cost of the war
3. Defended the presidency of George W. Bush
4. Vilified the entire Democratic Party in the US
5. Failed to understand and act on the facts about global warming
6. Backed nuclear power without any thought to the consequences (environmental OR economic)
7. Waged war on asylum seekers
8. Accused asylum seekers of drowning their babies
9. Then remained indifferent to hundreds of drowned refugees
10. Opened a chain of Pacific prisons
11. Added razor wire to mainland concentration camps
12. Then trumpeted Australian values of tolerance, mateship and a fair go
13. Left David Hicks in Guantanamo for 5 years
14. Then pretended to intervene on Hicks' behalf
15. Had mercenaries trained in Dubai to attack the wharfies
16. Ensured the referendum on an independent Australia (aka The Republic) failed
17. Ignored the "Bringing Them Home" report on the stolen generation
18. Attacked the "black armband view" of Australian history
19. Refused to say "Sorry"
20. Attacked the ABC
21. Attacked the union movement
22. Attacked voluntary euthanasia
23. Stonewalled poor Peter Costello
24. Refused to debate me on television on the war in Iraq
25. Refused to debate me on in Parliament on the war in Iraq
...is to ignore the inexorable truth about the Prime Minister:
a. John Howard is highly moral and outlines the correct position on every issue
b. John Howard and his government are not past their prime
c. John Howard is a very clever politician and understands the Australian people implicitly
Shame on you Phillip Adams.
Wednesday 7 March 2007
Qantas commitment
I do worry.
I worry about this government's ability to get the best possible outcomes for the Australian people.
And so it is with the Qantas sale. Can we be assured there is an absolute, legally enforceable commitment from the new owners to honour the undertakings in the takeover agreement?
What happens if the consortium doesn't honour these "codified" pledges? What happens if they pull the plug on regional air commitments? What if they pull the plug on Australian-based maintenance facilities?
What happens then? Do we say "Gosh. We lost them. Oh well". Do the Australian people receive compensation? Can we legally enforce their return?
My challenge to John Howard and Peter Costello is this: Show the Australian people an iron-clad guarantee on ongoing Qantas services and maintenance. Show us how the Government will enforce this commitment.
The Australian people deserve no less.
I worry about this government's ability to get the best possible outcomes for the Australian people.
And so it is with the Qantas sale. Can we be assured there is an absolute, legally enforceable commitment from the new owners to honour the undertakings in the takeover agreement?
What happens if the consortium doesn't honour these "codified" pledges? What happens if they pull the plug on regional air commitments? What if they pull the plug on Australian-based maintenance facilities?
What happens then? Do we say "Gosh. We lost them. Oh well". Do the Australian people receive compensation? Can we legally enforce their return?
My challenge to John Howard and Peter Costello is this: Show the Australian people an iron-clad guarantee on ongoing Qantas services and maintenance. Show us how the Government will enforce this commitment.
The Australian people deserve no less.
Tuesday 6 March 2007
It's Time
Now I'm not suggesting we all gather around and sing a rousing song, but it was pretty good for its time (pardon the pun)
Howard the Bikie
Wayne Swan's image of John Howard as a "political bikie" is both frightening and funny.
Frightening because it accurately portrays the attitude the PM is displaying towards opponents and colleagues alike. Australia doesn't need this kind of political thuggery.
Funny, because of the thought of John Howard on a chopper, barely able to reach the handlebars.
Surely our great cartoonists will have a field day with that one.
Frightening because it accurately portrays the attitude the PM is displaying towards opponents and colleagues alike. Australia doesn't need this kind of political thuggery.
Funny, because of the thought of John Howard on a chopper, barely able to reach the handlebars.
Surely our great cartoonists will have a field day with that one.
The Polls of Polarisation
When you examine the latest Newspoll results, one thing is clear: John Howard is polarising the electorate. You are either "for him or agin him".
The number of uncommitteds is at record low levels when looking at his performance. 61% of conservative voters support a nuclear power industry. Yet only 35% of progressive voters are in favour.
Howard continues trying to foist controversial and unwanted measures on the Australian people. Look at the poll on climate change - 93% of people think that its effect on Australia is a problem. 76% think it a major problem.
And what is Howard's answer? Nuclear power that Australians do not want. Only 25% of people would support a nuclear power plant in their area. Even 53% of Coalition voters don't want one in their backyard.
Polemical, divisive politics. John Howard is adept at it. Yet, for all his great "reading" of the voters, he cannot hear the whistle of the train called the Australian people hurtling along his track.
Saturday 3 March 2007
Campbell Resigns
I like Ian Campbell. Seriously. He has a good heart and he worked hard in the Environment portfolio, particularly around issues such as whaling.
The fact that he has been forced to resign because of the moral imbroglio brought on by Howard and Costello's attack on me is testament to the snarling, vitriolic politics this country does not deserve.
If Howard and Costello hadn't attacked me, do you think Ian Campbell would have had to resign?
Ian Campbell has become "collateral damage" in the conservatives' push to be too politically "clever". And the Australian people know that if you push "clever" too far, you become a smart arse. And smart arses tend to end up...
...on their arse.
Poll on Burke meetings
A quick, unscientific poll has been put up by the Sydney Morning Herald. I leave it for you to judge.
Do you think the meetings (with Burke) have damaged Rudd?
Yes, a lot - 19%
Yes, a bit - 28%
Not at all - 54%
Total Votes: 2524
Do you think the meetings (with Burke) have damaged Rudd?
Yes, a lot - 19%
Yes, a bit - 28%
Not at all - 54%
Total Votes: 2524
Dick Howard
Ouch!
I get a laugh out of Jon Stewart's Daily Show. The humour is biting and none more so than his examination of the similarities between John Howard and Dick Cheney.
Satire is part of the game when it comes to politics. I've copped my share ( the Tin Tin references for instance) and will continue to in the future. It's all good fun - you can't have a glass jaw when you become leader of a political party in any country.
The conservatives' hypocrisy
"Anyone who deals with Mr Brian Burke is morally and politically compromised" said Peter Costello on Thursday.
Really Mr Treasurer.
Now we learn Senator Ian Campbell met with Burke on 8 June last year to discuss the redevelopment of racecourses down by the Swan River.
Oh, and it turns out ex-Minister Geoff Prosser paid for Burke's lobbying services as well.
What is going on?
As I said over the last couple of days, I made a mistake by meeting with Burke and I leave people to make their judgement on that decision.
But I cannot stand accused of the rampant hypocrisy displayed by the conservatives. By Peter Costello's own words, Ian Campbell is politically compromised.
Should Campbell resign, judged by Costello's standards? Or maybe it doesn't matter because he's a Lib.
Should the conservatives examine their own belly button fluff before indulging in muck raking?
As I said yesterday, "the public are always keen to examine the mud thrower, as much as on whom it lands".
Really Mr Treasurer.
Now we learn Senator Ian Campbell met with Burke on 8 June last year to discuss the redevelopment of racecourses down by the Swan River.
Oh, and it turns out ex-Minister Geoff Prosser paid for Burke's lobbying services as well.
What is going on?
As I said over the last couple of days, I made a mistake by meeting with Burke and I leave people to make their judgement on that decision.
But I cannot stand accused of the rampant hypocrisy displayed by the conservatives. By Peter Costello's own words, Ian Campbell is politically compromised.
Should Campbell resign, judged by Costello's standards? Or maybe it doesn't matter because he's a Lib.
Should the conservatives examine their own belly button fluff before indulging in muck raking?
As I said yesterday, "the public are always keen to examine the mud thrower, as much as on whom it lands".
Friday 2 March 2007
50 Posts
Well, I've hit my 50th blog post and it's been an illuminating experience indeed.
I thank all those people who have responded so positively to my musings. Your support and feedback is much appreciated.
I thank all those people who have responded so positively to my musings. Your support and feedback is much appreciated.
Of Burke and wills
In politics, it's sometimes important to not talk with people. Sometimes in life you look back with hindsight and say "I wish I didn't do that".
That's the way it is with Brian Burke. We met three times during 2005 - they were informal casual affairs, not the conspiratorial gatherings Costello et al were blathering on about yesterday. I did not try and enlist Burke as my "numbers man". Did I know what he was up to at the time? No.
I realise this is Australian politics - a blow thrown is usually a blow landed. However the public are always keen to examine the mud thrower, as much as on whom it lands. People don't like politicians who behave like childish playground bullies.
I can and will substantially defend my position and my actions. And it is a battle of wills, a battle that will continue until the next federal election. A battle that I intend to win.
That's the way it is with Brian Burke. We met three times during 2005 - they were informal casual affairs, not the conspiratorial gatherings Costello et al were blathering on about yesterday. I did not try and enlist Burke as my "numbers man". Did I know what he was up to at the time? No.
I realise this is Australian politics - a blow thrown is usually a blow landed. However the public are always keen to examine the mud thrower, as much as on whom it lands. People don't like politicians who behave like childish playground bullies.
I can and will substantially defend my position and my actions. And it is a battle of wills, a battle that will continue until the next federal election. A battle that I intend to win.
Thursday 1 March 2007
Inappropriate public spending
I looked out the window of my office in Canberra this morning and noticed a helicopter towing a banner. It was moving slowing across the Parliamentary Triangle and on to Kingston and Fyshwick.
Nothing particularly unusual about that, except that the banner said "Happy Birthday Navy".
And that struck me as odd. Why would the government spend money on fuel, design, construction, not to mention resource hours on a happy birthday sign for the Navy?
Don't get me wrong, the Navy plays a critically important role in Australia's defence. But spending vital Defence dollars on this form of celebration seems completely inappropriate.
Nothing particularly unusual about that, except that the banner said "Happy Birthday Navy".
And that struck me as odd. Why would the government spend money on fuel, design, construction, not to mention resource hours on a happy birthday sign for the Navy?
Don't get me wrong, the Navy plays a critically important role in Australia's defence. But spending vital Defence dollars on this form of celebration seems completely inappropriate.
The Naughty Corner
What an infantile lot these conservatives are.
When we're engaging in the extremely important education debate, putting forward initiatives that will see our young people better educated and our country better able to lead the world in maths and science, how does the Education Minister respond? (and it's page 47 for all of the Hansard aficionados out there)
"Naughty boy! You stole the idea didn't you"
"You will have to go to the naughty corner won't you"
Aside from the fact our policy initiatives were not stolen from anyone, is this the kind of government we want? One that will trivialise when faced with strong alternative policies? A government that would rather make themselves look silly than provide professional and responsive leadership?
Stand up. This country deserves much much better.
When we're engaging in the extremely important education debate, putting forward initiatives that will see our young people better educated and our country better able to lead the world in maths and science, how does the Education Minister respond? (and it's page 47 for all of the Hansard aficionados out there)
"Naughty boy! You stole the idea didn't you"
"You will have to go to the naughty corner won't you"
Aside from the fact our policy initiatives were not stolen from anyone, is this the kind of government we want? One that will trivialise when faced with strong alternative policies? A government that would rather make themselves look silly than provide professional and responsive leadership?
Stand up. This country deserves much much better.
Wednesday 28 February 2007
National Education System
I was proud to announce today our policy to introduce a national curriculum for maths, English, science and history.
The curriculum will bring consistency and sense to eight separate systems that produce varying degrees of success. A key component will be our close engagement with the states to ensure appropriate regional requirements are met. This will be a system that is not shackled by ideology but is developed via consensus and agreement.
The nationwide curriculum is the third plank in our education revolution, together with maths and science students having their HECS bill slashed under our $111 million proposal and $450 million a year being provided for four-year-olds to have 15 hours per week of pre-school learning.
The curriculum will bring consistency and sense to eight separate systems that produce varying degrees of success. A key component will be our close engagement with the states to ensure appropriate regional requirements are met. This will be a system that is not shackled by ideology but is developed via consensus and agreement.
The nationwide curriculum is the third plank in our education revolution, together with maths and science students having their HECS bill slashed under our $111 million proposal and $450 million a year being provided for four-year-olds to have 15 hours per week of pre-school learning.
Goodbye Billy Thorpe
I was very saddened to learn this morning of the death of Billy Thorpe.
Billy was at the forefront of Australian rock music and he led the way for other great acts such as ACDC, Midnight Oil, Cold Chisel and many others.
I had the privilege of seeing him on stage at a festival a couple of years ago. It was a hair raising experience being up on the side of the stage watching him perform. He was tight, loud, funny and hugely entertaining.
As Billy used to say, "Today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday."
No more tomorrows for Bill. Vale The King!
Billy was at the forefront of Australian rock music and he led the way for other great acts such as ACDC, Midnight Oil, Cold Chisel and many others.
I had the privilege of seeing him on stage at a festival a couple of years ago. It was a hair raising experience being up on the side of the stage watching him perform. He was tight, loud, funny and hugely entertaining.
As Billy used to say, "Today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday."
No more tomorrows for Bill. Vale The King!
Focus and discipline
It's time to take half a step back and examine where we are.
All this news of poll leads, preferred Prime Minister, "star" candidates and policy leadership is all well and good, but we're a long way from from where we need to be come election time.
We have 16 seats to pick up nationally. That, historically, is a very tough ask. People have responded extremely well to our team, seeing us now as a credible alternative government. However, we cannot expect John Howard and the government to stand idly by while we march into office.
The increasingly personal attacks on us are only the precursor to a wave of negative campaigning. Howard will seek to divide and conquer, both within our team, but also with the voting public.
As I told caucus yesterday, we must hold firm, keep our discipline, focus on policy leadership and credibility, and keep away from engaging at the personal level. Whilst we would all love to shout down the crass and feral attacks from the conservatives, only by showing great dignity and resolve will we give ourselves the chance to pick up those 16 seats needed to form the next Federal Labor Government.
All this news of poll leads, preferred Prime Minister, "star" candidates and policy leadership is all well and good, but we're a long way from from where we need to be come election time.
We have 16 seats to pick up nationally. That, historically, is a very tough ask. People have responded extremely well to our team, seeing us now as a credible alternative government. However, we cannot expect John Howard and the government to stand idly by while we march into office.
The increasingly personal attacks on us are only the precursor to a wave of negative campaigning. Howard will seek to divide and conquer, both within our team, but also with the voting public.
As I told caucus yesterday, we must hold firm, keep our discipline, focus on policy leadership and credibility, and keep away from engaging at the personal level. Whilst we would all love to shout down the crass and feral attacks from the conservatives, only by showing great dignity and resolve will we give ourselves the chance to pick up those 16 seats needed to form the next Federal Labor Government.
Tuesday 27 February 2007
Nobody talked nuclear to anyone
This story about Ron Walker, Hugh Morgan and Robert Champion de Crespigny not talking to John Howard or Ian Macfarlane about nuclear power plants is starting to smell.
Sure John Howard talks to his friend Ron Walker. But he didn't talk to him. Not really.
Why the great expanding defence? Why the inscrutable clucking about integrity? Why the defensiveness?
My challenge to Mr Howard is this: tell the people when you started formulating a nuclear power plant policy. Tell the people when you started talking to your mates about your plan. Tell the people why you commissioned a report on nuclear power when you already knew the answer.
Tell us John Howard.
Sure John Howard talks to his friend Ron Walker. But he didn't talk to him. Not really.
Why the great expanding defence? Why the inscrutable clucking about integrity? Why the defensiveness?
My challenge to Mr Howard is this: tell the people when you started formulating a nuclear power plant policy. Tell the people when you started talking to your mates about your plan. Tell the people why you commissioned a report on nuclear power when you already knew the answer.
Tell us John Howard.
The Celebrity of Politics
Today's Herald Sun has a light puff piece about the "Politics of Celebrity" in relation to Maxine McKew's run against John Howard in Bennelong and other "celebrities" in parliament.
I would suggest a "celebrity of politics" exists in that every politician from every party becomes a celebrity of sorts when they join the parliament. Some take on more celebrity than others - just look at Pauline Hanson or Natasha Stott Despoja for instance. Others lack the charisma, good looks, intelligence or startling comments to generate "celebrity" status. Some prefer to remain anonymous, known only to their constituents. But even they are a minor celebrity, whether its officially opening a building or having a cup of tea with the punters in a country hall.
The point is, we shouldn't get hung up on the celebrity of any politician. Yes there are high profile politicians and candidates. There always will be. It's what they say and do that counts.
I would suggest a "celebrity of politics" exists in that every politician from every party becomes a celebrity of sorts when they join the parliament. Some take on more celebrity than others - just look at Pauline Hanson or Natasha Stott Despoja for instance. Others lack the charisma, good looks, intelligence or startling comments to generate "celebrity" status. Some prefer to remain anonymous, known only to their constituents. But even they are a minor celebrity, whether its officially opening a building or having a cup of tea with the punters in a country hall.
The point is, we shouldn't get hung up on the celebrity of any politician. Yes there are high profile politicians and candidates. There always will be. It's what they say and do that counts.
Monday 26 February 2007
No damage to the US alliance
I'd like to note my comments on this site last Monday:
"Our alliance is not threatened by a clear, independent position on Iraq."
And Mr Cheney's comments on the alliance during his visit when asked about the withdrawal of approximately 500 Australian combat troops?
"I don't see any prospect of damage to the alliance."
Exactly.
"Our alliance is not threatened by a clear, independent position on Iraq."
And Mr Cheney's comments on the alliance during his visit when asked about the withdrawal of approximately 500 Australian combat troops?
"I don't see any prospect of damage to the alliance."
Exactly.
Clean Coal
The message from Labor is clean and clear.
When it comes to the coal industry, we need to invest in reducing emissions. We need to invest in protecting our export industry. We need to invest in protecting jobs and ensuring the future wellbeing of all people associated with the industry.
Our $500m clean coal policy will transform the industry, protecting and generating jobs, opening up opportunities for the export of successful clean coal technologies. Consider the scope of these technologies and the major impact they could have on emmissions:
* Coal gasification, whereby power plants gasify the coal with the resultant synthesis gas used to run a turbine that produces electricity.
* Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), whereby the CO2 from the synthesis gas is separated, and then redirected and stored. The redirection of CO2 into geological formations is called geosequestriation.
* Oxy firing, whereby pulverised coal is combusted in a mixture of oxygen and recirculated flue gas in order to reduce the net volume of flue gases from the process and to substantially increase the concentration of CO2 in the flue gases.
* Post Combustion Capture (PCC), whereby CO2 is removed from the flue gas from conventional coal fired power stations and then stored.
We cannot realistically think the coal industry can be closed down in Australia. The effect on how way of life would be catastrophic. It is only the research and development of appropriate solutions for the removal of CO2 emissions that will contribute to a 60% reduction in greenhouse pollution by 2050.
Long term solutions such as this are only achieved by having a vision, together with the courage to take the "baby steps" needed right now.
When it comes to the coal industry, we need to invest in reducing emissions. We need to invest in protecting our export industry. We need to invest in protecting jobs and ensuring the future wellbeing of all people associated with the industry.
Our $500m clean coal policy will transform the industry, protecting and generating jobs, opening up opportunities for the export of successful clean coal technologies. Consider the scope of these technologies and the major impact they could have on emmissions:
* Coal gasification, whereby power plants gasify the coal with the resultant synthesis gas used to run a turbine that produces electricity.
* Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), whereby the CO2 from the synthesis gas is separated, and then redirected and stored. The redirection of CO2 into geological formations is called geosequestriation.
* Oxy firing, whereby pulverised coal is combusted in a mixture of oxygen and recirculated flue gas in order to reduce the net volume of flue gases from the process and to substantially increase the concentration of CO2 in the flue gases.
* Post Combustion Capture (PCC), whereby CO2 is removed from the flue gas from conventional coal fired power stations and then stored.
We cannot realistically think the coal industry can be closed down in Australia. The effect on how way of life would be catastrophic. It is only the research and development of appropriate solutions for the removal of CO2 emissions that will contribute to a 60% reduction in greenhouse pollution by 2050.
Long term solutions such as this are only achieved by having a vision, together with the courage to take the "baby steps" needed right now.
The Business of Business
I'm delighted to see such a strong commitment from business to sign up for the Business Observer Program at the party's national conference in April.
Frankly, it surprised me when Tim Gartrell said: "This is by far the best response we have had from the business community to a Labor leader." I am honoured to be in such esteemed company.
The key issue is one of engagement. Business is seeing the Labor leadership as approachable. Business can put a case to us, whether it be about skills shortages, industrial relations, economic management; we will listen and engage. The outcome is an improved set of results for Australia, and not just for interest groups or lobbyists.
The business of business is built on trust, and I welcome the opportunity to demonstrate my integrity to the Australian business community.
Frankly, it surprised me when Tim Gartrell said: "This is by far the best response we have had from the business community to a Labor leader." I am honoured to be in such esteemed company.
The key issue is one of engagement. Business is seeing the Labor leadership as approachable. Business can put a case to us, whether it be about skills shortages, industrial relations, economic management; we will listen and engage. The outcome is an improved set of results for Australia, and not just for interest groups or lobbyists.
The business of business is built on trust, and I welcome the opportunity to demonstrate my integrity to the Australian business community.
Maxine takes on Howard
Good morning, my apologies, but I haven't had a lot of time to post in the past week. The pace has picked up another notch which suits me right down to the ground.
I'd like to congratulate Maxine McKew for putting up her hand and nominating for preselection for Bennelong. As psephologist Malcolm Mackerras has said, it's a marginal seat now, with a strong migrant vote. Maxine will be an excellent candidate to campaign against John Howard. No longer can Howard be "relaxed and comfortable" about winning his seat. The pressure this introduces can only defocus him from the national election and the contest for other marginals - he cannot physically be in two places at once.
And I'd also like to challenge what some commentators are saying. Take Richard Farmer in today's Crikey, Maxine is not running in Bennelong to be "blooded". She is running to win. To defeat John Howard. To return a Labor government to Canberra.
I'd like to congratulate Maxine McKew for putting up her hand and nominating for preselection for Bennelong. As psephologist Malcolm Mackerras has said, it's a marginal seat now, with a strong migrant vote. Maxine will be an excellent candidate to campaign against John Howard. No longer can Howard be "relaxed and comfortable" about winning his seat. The pressure this introduces can only defocus him from the national election and the contest for other marginals - he cannot physically be in two places at once.
And I'd also like to challenge what some commentators are saying. Take Richard Farmer in today's Crikey, Maxine is not running in Bennelong to be "blooded". She is running to win. To defeat John Howard. To return a Labor government to Canberra.
Tuesday 20 February 2007
Howard working the angles...
In my view, Geoff Pryor is the finest cartoonist in Australia. I couldn't resist sharing this with you from this morning's Canberra Times.
Comes a Time
Picture: Colin Murty
As Neil Young says:
"comes a light feelin's liftin'
lift that baby right up off the ground.
oh, this old world keeps spinning round
it's a wonder tall trees ain't layin' down
there comes a time."
Today's Newspoll is tremendous news. We have a strong lead over the Coalition, more people are now dissatisfied with Howard's performance than those who are satisfied, 68% are satisfied with my performance, I now have a big lead in the preferred Prime Minister poll and importantly, 83% of people either want the government to set an exit date or bring the troops home now.
John Howard is awash in bad numbers, bad press, and bad vibes.
(Oh, and by the way, 51% are against nuclear power stations in Australia, including 57% of women)
People of Australia, there comes a time.
Monday 19 February 2007
Water water everywhere
The question of the size of the plan to save the Murray-Darling system is at the heart of my shuttle diplomacy this week with the states.
As I said this morning, I'm not confident of reaching agreement with each of the states during my discussions this week.
"My job is to be the alternative prime minister of the country, that means having some disagreements with my good friend Mike (Rann) here or Peter Beattie in my own state of Queensland, I'm prepared to do that."
"But what I'm trying to do this week is to be as positive and constructive as possible in narrowing the gap which currently exists between the states and Canberra."
"At this stage of the process I'm not that confident that I'm going to get there because there are significant differences, particularly in Victoria but elsewhere as well, on what can be best achieved with the Prime Minister's proposal."
If John Howard wants to spend up to $1 billion in annual funding without cabinet approval, then such a "massive undertaking" raises questions about the "adequacy of funding on offer".
Read My Lips: No More Troops
Our policy position on the troops in Iraq is clear cut. Let's get them out of there and let's not commit any more troops.
So, no Mr Howard. No more trainers.
No more combat troops.
No more support troops.
Mr Cheney can come cap in hand and talk as much as he wants about our alliance. Our alliance is not threatened by a clear, independent position on Iraq.
So, no Mr Howard. No more trainers.
No more combat troops.
No more support troops.
Mr Cheney can come cap in hand and talk as much as he wants about our alliance. Our alliance is not threatened by a clear, independent position on Iraq.
Saturday 17 February 2007
Thom Yorke on Nuclear Power
Thom Yorke from Radiohead is straight forward when it comes to the insanity of nuclear power.
Thom refers to a number of compelling reasons why nuclear power is not acceptable in Australia.
John Howard sees it as a panacea for our country's energy ills. I see it as an extreme technology that has no place in Australia. Let's learn from Europe's sadness (and I include Chernobyl in that argument).
"When will this enigma resolve itself?"
I love Tony Abbott. He kicks heads. He boxes. He scrunches ears. He dives around in his bin of cliches, pulling out fears and woes.
The latest conservative attack, "he's trying to be all things to all people", is once again seriously misguided.
They say, "how can you want to do something about global warming, yet support the coal miners? How can you support the American alliance yet want to pull troops out of Iraq?"
Simple my friends. Have intelligent, pragmatic policy positions that take into account our place in the world and the needs of the Australian people. The Australian voting public don't want one dimensional politicians, squeezing out populist policies that ignore the realities of any given situation.
So, if we are to move to more sustainable energy industry, reducing emissions and meeting Kyoto targets, we must consider the impact on people like the coal workers and introduce support programs.
It is important that we support the American alliance, but at the same time have a strong independent voice in the world.
Australians want that kind of consideration.
To call me an enigma is benign. If I am an enigma to the conservatives, I know exactly when I will resolve myself. That will be the night of the next election, when I stand up and accept victory on behalf of the Australian people.
The latest conservative attack, "he's trying to be all things to all people", is once again seriously misguided.
They say, "how can you want to do something about global warming, yet support the coal miners? How can you support the American alliance yet want to pull troops out of Iraq?"
Simple my friends. Have intelligent, pragmatic policy positions that take into account our place in the world and the needs of the Australian people. The Australian voting public don't want one dimensional politicians, squeezing out populist policies that ignore the realities of any given situation.
So, if we are to move to more sustainable energy industry, reducing emissions and meeting Kyoto targets, we must consider the impact on people like the coal workers and introduce support programs.
It is important that we support the American alliance, but at the same time have a strong independent voice in the world.
Australians want that kind of consideration.
To call me an enigma is benign. If I am an enigma to the conservatives, I know exactly when I will resolve myself. That will be the night of the next election, when I stand up and accept victory on behalf of the Australian people.
Friday 16 February 2007
These people are putting bases in our country...
...and at this time we agree with the principle but really...
Frog in the Pond
When my daughter was young, she used to love a dessert called "Frog in the Pond", a simple concoction of a Freddo Frog in lime jelly.
Yesterday in parliament, there were whispers about a mysterious frog joke that didn't quite make its way into our pond. I'm wondering what the joke could be?
Perhaps one against my nerdy friends?
A boy was crossing a road one day when a frog called out to him and said, "If you kiss me, I'll turn into a beautiful princess". He bent over, picked up the frog and put it in his pocket. The frog spoke up again and said, "If you kiss me and turn me back into a beautiful princess, I will stay with you for one week." The boy took the frog out of his pocket, smiled at it and returned it to the pocket. The frog then cried out, "If you kiss me and turn me back into a princess, 'll stay with you and do ANYTHING you want." Again the boy took the frog out, smiled at it and put it back into his pocket.
Finally, the frog asked, "What is the matter? I've told you I'm a beautiful princess, that I'll stay with you for a week and do anything you want. Why won't you kiss me?"
The boy said, "Look, I'm a software engineer, I don't have time for a girlfriend, but a talking frog is cool."
Yesterday in parliament, there were whispers about a mysterious frog joke that didn't quite make its way into our pond. I'm wondering what the joke could be?
Perhaps one against my nerdy friends?
A boy was crossing a road one day when a frog called out to him and said, "If you kiss me, I'll turn into a beautiful princess". He bent over, picked up the frog and put it in his pocket. The frog spoke up again and said, "If you kiss me and turn me back into a beautiful princess, I will stay with you for one week." The boy took the frog out of his pocket, smiled at it and returned it to the pocket. The frog then cried out, "If you kiss me and turn me back into a princess, 'll stay with you and do ANYTHING you want." Again the boy took the frog out, smiled at it and put it back into his pocket.
Finally, the frog asked, "What is the matter? I've told you I'm a beautiful princess, that I'll stay with you for a week and do anything you want. Why won't you kiss me?"
The boy said, "Look, I'm a software engineer, I don't have time for a girlfriend, but a talking frog is cool."
Wednesday 14 February 2007
John Howard's Courage
"My courage is greater than your courage". So says John Howard in 2007.
Yes folks. John Howard is trying to out-muscle the Labor Party with his indestructible righteousness. And it has gone something like this:
Howard: Obama and the Democrats are wrong for America.
Me: You are wrong to attack the Democrats.
Howard: I'm defending Australia.
Me: Debate the policy with me.
Howard: No, you lack the courage to explain your policy.
Me: What's your exit strategy? Do you have the courage to tell the Australian people how you're going to win the war in Iraq?
The great tragedy for Australia is that when John Howard is under pressure, he resorts to the "you don't, I do" defence. Hence, his "My courage is greater than your courage" righteousness.
The reality is that Mr Howard has a fear. A deep, pervading fear that he has extended himself too far. That he should have resigned when he had the chance to go out on top, his historical reputation secure.
Now, he is down in the mud, flinging away. Hoping beyond hope that somehow the Australian people will cling to his tired, stale leadership and not see his "courage" for what it really is.
Yes folks. John Howard is trying to out-muscle the Labor Party with his indestructible righteousness. And it has gone something like this:
Howard: Obama and the Democrats are wrong for America.
Me: You are wrong to attack the Democrats.
Howard: I'm defending Australia.
Me: Debate the policy with me.
Howard: No, you lack the courage to explain your policy.
Me: What's your exit strategy? Do you have the courage to tell the Australian people how you're going to win the war in Iraq?
The great tragedy for Australia is that when John Howard is under pressure, he resorts to the "you don't, I do" defence. Hence, his "My courage is greater than your courage" righteousness.
The reality is that Mr Howard has a fear. A deep, pervading fear that he has extended himself too far. That he should have resigned when he had the chance to go out on top, his historical reputation secure.
Now, he is down in the mud, flinging away. Hoping beyond hope that somehow the Australian people will cling to his tired, stale leadership and not see his "courage" for what it really is.
Monday 12 February 2007
The Christian Cafeteria
I'm bemused by Christopher Pearson's article in The Australian on Saturday attacking me for being a "cafeteria Christian".
The term is not an original idea from Mr Pearson. It has been used many times to describe someone who picks and chooses elements of their faith, or someone who doesn't practice what they preach.
So why am I a "cafeteria Christian"? Is it because I see my faith from a social justice perspective? Is it because I am content with the interrelation of my birth-Catholicism with my wife's Anglicism? Is it because I believe faith is not just for the indoctrinated?
Christianity, faith and spirituality in general is a form of cafeteria. All people choose elements that suit their own beliefs. The fact that we as a society have moved away from dogma to acceptance shows our growing shared emotional intelligence.
It is a society that I wish to lead, one that accepts that opportunity and support are not just for the indoctrinated, nor the "religious right" nor those who only believe in what I believe.
The term is not an original idea from Mr Pearson. It has been used many times to describe someone who picks and chooses elements of their faith, or someone who doesn't practice what they preach.
So why am I a "cafeteria Christian"? Is it because I see my faith from a social justice perspective? Is it because I am content with the interrelation of my birth-Catholicism with my wife's Anglicism? Is it because I believe faith is not just for the indoctrinated?
Christianity, faith and spirituality in general is a form of cafeteria. All people choose elements that suit their own beliefs. The fact that we as a society have moved away from dogma to acceptance shows our growing shared emotional intelligence.
It is a society that I wish to lead, one that accepts that opportunity and support are not just for the indoctrinated, nor the "religious right" nor those who only believe in what I believe.
O Obama!
Walt Whitman's great ode to Abraham Lincoln, O Captain! My Captain!, delivers a passionate address on Lincoln's passing:
"O captain! my Captain! rise up and hear the bells;
Rise up! For you the flag is flung, for you the bugle trills:
For you bouquets and ribboned wreaths, for you the shores a-crowding:
For you they call, the swaying mass, their eager faces turning."
Similarly, at the start of his presidential campaign, it is for Barack Obama they call.
But not all of them...
John Howard's cat-call across the Pacific yesterday achieved outcomes that you couldn't wish for in a month of Sundays:
Firstly, name recognition. The Australian people have been told loudly by the Prime Minister that Barack Obama is a serious danger to Mr Howard's republican mates in the next Presidential election. That Obama has numerous hurdles to cross before ever getting the opportunity is irrelevant. By calling him to task on his Iraq strategy, Howard has delivered eager Australian eyes to Obama's campaign of hope.
Secondly, John Howard has again demonstrated to the world his inability to have an independent voice. His blind acceptance of President Bush's Iraq doctrine plays right into our hands. His additional attack on my Iraq position only makes his position more tenuous.
Footnote: I see Barack Obama has rejected Mr Howard's criticism with a strong point on Mr Howard's action versus rhetoric:
"I would also note that we have close to 140,000 troops in Iraq and my understanding is Mr Howard has deployed 1,400.
"So if he is...to fight the good fight in Iraq, I would suggest that he calls up another 20,000 Australians and sends them to Iraq, otherwise it's just a bunch of empty rhetoric."
Saturday 10 February 2007
The Brutopian Brouhaha
This week has seen a successful return to parliament. Our focus on leadership and the global warming debate has put the government on the back foot. This was particularly evident in Howard's flustered arrogance, denying the link between greenhouse gas emissions and climate change, only later to say he was referring to a connection between greenhouse gas emissions and drought. Arrogance because he thought he knew what we were asking without thinking about it, fluster because his gaffe surely exposes his age and ability against our younger, more dynamic team.
And our team has performed strongly this week - there's nothing a sniff of blood can't do in lifting effort and performance. I particularly enjoyed Peter Garrett going head to head with a wobbly Malcolm Turnbull on The 7.30 Report.
Could I touch briefly on Costello's brouhaha about "Brutopia", the mythical country parodying the USSR, borrowed by Michael Oakeshott from Carl Banks' imaginative Disney world and to which I referred in November's issue of "The Monthly".
Costello's schoolboy humour misses the point I was making in The Monthly article:
An unfettered market capitalism, that is, "the unforgiving forces of neo-liberalism, materialism and consumerism" without the effective checks and balances of social responsibility will give rise to an ugly society of fear and prejudice. Convervative philosopher Michael Oakeshott's Brutopia is a representation of just such an outcome.
Howard's consistent projection of fear and it's associated unbalanced and unachievable panacea of "certainty", underpins his cynical, "political" approach to Australia. The counter balance of a government's moral responsibility to protect those without power or access to market capitalism is non-existent.
Our social democratic belief that individual reward can be balanced with social responsibility is at the heart of our policy formulation. It is the rejection of a market-driven "Brutopia" that makes Costello's shallow humour so disturbing. This is the ground on which the election will be fought.
What future do Australians want? One of fear, or one of reward and responsibility?
And our team has performed strongly this week - there's nothing a sniff of blood can't do in lifting effort and performance. I particularly enjoyed Peter Garrett going head to head with a wobbly Malcolm Turnbull on The 7.30 Report.
Could I touch briefly on Costello's brouhaha about "Brutopia", the mythical country parodying the USSR, borrowed by Michael Oakeshott from Carl Banks' imaginative Disney world and to which I referred in November's issue of "The Monthly".
Costello's schoolboy humour misses the point I was making in The Monthly article:
An unfettered market capitalism, that is, "the unforgiving forces of neo-liberalism, materialism and consumerism" without the effective checks and balances of social responsibility will give rise to an ugly society of fear and prejudice. Convervative philosopher Michael Oakeshott's Brutopia is a representation of just such an outcome.
Howard's consistent projection of fear and it's associated unbalanced and unachievable panacea of "certainty", underpins his cynical, "political" approach to Australia. The counter balance of a government's moral responsibility to protect those without power or access to market capitalism is non-existent.
Our social democratic belief that individual reward can be balanced with social responsibility is at the heart of our policy formulation. It is the rejection of a market-driven "Brutopia" that makes Costello's shallow humour so disturbing. This is the ground on which the election will be fought.
What future do Australians want? One of fear, or one of reward and responsibility?
Wednesday 7 February 2007
Howard's depth of cynicism
Good people, I enjoyed yesterday's first day of parliament for the year. We kept our questions short and tight and managed to rile a few conservatives into some strange rants. For instance, Turnbull's tirade in Question Time:
"What the opposition is doing now is giving us some kind of cramped political theology. Nobody is allowed to doubt. Anybody with an open mind is to be banned"
Is this meant to be some kind of neo-smash-the-socialist-menace message?
We have a very open mind to climate change, sustainable energy, the reduction of greenhouse emissions, the signing of the Kyoto treaty. I don't see the Howard government portraying an open mind to Kyoto!
And then yesterday we have Howard's cynical flip flops. After nearly 11 years, he's suddenly changed his view on carbon trading and David Hicks. How has Mr Howard suddenly become "very uncomfortable" with the slow progress of court action against David Hicks?
Shame on you Mr Howard. Do you really think the the Australian people will believe you have shifted your opinions on the weight of evidence and not on our decisive policy statements on both issues or the heat you are receiving from your backbench???
"What the opposition is doing now is giving us some kind of cramped political theology. Nobody is allowed to doubt. Anybody with an open mind is to be banned"
Is this meant to be some kind of neo-smash-the-socialist-menace message?
We have a very open mind to climate change, sustainable energy, the reduction of greenhouse emissions, the signing of the Kyoto treaty. I don't see the Howard government portraying an open mind to Kyoto!
And then yesterday we have Howard's cynical flip flops. After nearly 11 years, he's suddenly changed his view on carbon trading and David Hicks. How has Mr Howard suddenly become "very uncomfortable" with the slow progress of court action against David Hicks?
Shame on you Mr Howard. Do you really think the the Australian people will believe you have shifted your opinions on the weight of evidence and not on our decisive policy statements on both issues or the heat you are receiving from your backbench???
Tuesday 6 February 2007
Strong Polls, new challenges
Good morning and welcome to the start of a new political year. And what a year it will be. The latest Newspoll figures are strong and we commence the parliamentary sittings with a solid base of support, positioned for a big tilt at government later in the year. We're even receiving some backhanded support from, of all people, Gerard Henderson.
Mind you, I do take to task his statement that: "The Coalition will contest the election with the significant advantage of incumbency. This is of particular value in a compulsory voting electoral system where outcomes are decided by voters in the marginal seats, in suburban and regional Australia, who are not particularly interested in politics." What a put down of those good people! I would assert that someone who is in a marginal seat will be taking a very active interest in the political process given their ability to affect the outcome.
Can I just say this: the polls are excellent at this point in the electoral cycle, but it is a long hard road from here to the Lodge. Some sections of the media continue to grump about fractious feelings in our team, and this is indicative of the style of negative press we will continue to receive by those not aligned to our progressive thinking about the future.
The antidotes to this type of press are simple: teamwork, focus, clear policy convictions and differentiation, and well-oiled message making.
The challenge for Labor is this: take it up to a tired Howard government in parliament today and throughout the year, and demonstrate to an increasingly willing electorate that the time is right for change.
Mind you, I do take to task his statement that: "The Coalition will contest the election with the significant advantage of incumbency. This is of particular value in a compulsory voting electoral system where outcomes are decided by voters in the marginal seats, in suburban and regional Australia, who are not particularly interested in politics." What a put down of those good people! I would assert that someone who is in a marginal seat will be taking a very active interest in the political process given their ability to affect the outcome.
Can I just say this: the polls are excellent at this point in the electoral cycle, but it is a long hard road from here to the Lodge. Some sections of the media continue to grump about fractious feelings in our team, and this is indicative of the style of negative press we will continue to receive by those not aligned to our progressive thinking about the future.
The antidotes to this type of press are simple: teamwork, focus, clear policy convictions and differentiation, and well-oiled message making.
The challenge for Labor is this: take it up to a tired Howard government in parliament today and throughout the year, and demonstrate to an increasingly willing electorate that the time is right for change.
Monday 5 February 2007
Who is D D O'Malley?
Look, I don't normally comment off topic, but there have been murmurings recently about the existence of my friend and collaborator, D D O'Malley.
Some have suggested this blog is satire while others have alluded to Mr O'Malley being an apparatchik.
Mr O'Malley is a Canberra consultant. That is, he consults on a wide range of policy and political matters. I suspect he would laugh all the way down Brisbane Avenue to be called an apparatchik.
According to Oxford Online, an apparatchik is:
1. (chiefly historical) a member of the administrative system of a communist party
2. (derogatory or humorous) an official in a large political organisation
Well, I'm afraid Mr O'Malley is neither a communist nor an official who can be derogated. He can be rather humorous at times, but it does depend on your style of humour. That is, are you a Dave Hughes or an Adam Hills fan?
Some have suggested this blog is satire while others have alluded to Mr O'Malley being an apparatchik.
Mr O'Malley is a Canberra consultant. That is, he consults on a wide range of policy and political matters. I suspect he would laugh all the way down Brisbane Avenue to be called an apparatchik.
According to Oxford Online, an apparatchik is:
1. (chiefly historical) a member of the administrative system of a communist party
2. (derogatory or humorous) an official in a large political organisation
Well, I'm afraid Mr O'Malley is neither a communist nor an official who can be derogated. He can be rather humorous at times, but it does depend on your style of humour. That is, are you a Dave Hughes or an Adam Hills fan?
Sunday 4 February 2007
Climate Change Summit
I was excited today to announce a National Climate Change Summit to be held in March or April. As I said a few posts ago, we need national leadership on climate change and given the Howard government has gone missing on the issue, I propose to bring together a diverse range of people from business, the scientific community and federal, state and local government to determine the best response to the challenge of climate change.
Rod Eddington and Professor Ian Lowe, chair of the Australian Conservation Foundation, will assist in encouraging participation and generating support for the Summit.
I hope to then implement recommendations from the Summit in the first months of the Rudd Labor Government.
Please join me in bringing consensus to such a difficult and emotive issue, an issue which affects the economic and social future of the country.
Rod Eddington and Professor Ian Lowe, chair of the Australian Conservation Foundation, will assist in encouraging participation and generating support for the Summit.
I hope to then implement recommendations from the Summit in the first months of the Rudd Labor Government.
Please join me in bringing consensus to such a difficult and emotive issue, an issue which affects the economic and social future of the country.
Friday 2 February 2007
Push for big business support
One of the critical requirements for our election to government will be the support of business, and in particular, the big end of town.
To be honest, Labor's relationship with business in the past has ebbed and flowed more on personal relationships rather than formal engagement.
We recognise this potential weakness and that is why we have asked Rod Eddington to head up a Council of Business Advisers to help bridge the gap between business and government.
For too long, the Howard government has relied on a "whisper and nod" approach linking business and policy. Rod will bring his vast experience with British Airlines, News Limited and Rio Tinto to drive a new dialogue between business and government.
We intend to engage business directly through this forum and with Rod's help, bring about a transformational approach to policy engagement and economic reform.
Wednesday 31 January 2007
The Demise of the Great Barrier Reef and Howard's Inaction
Reports of the Great Barrier Reef's potential demise within decades must send a shiver down the collective spine of the Australian people.
After 6 years work, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change is currently finalising it's "Climate Change 2007" report, to be released in Paris on 2 February. In that report, it outlines a nightmare scenario for the Reef, depriving the world of one of its great wonders, and fundamentally affecting the $5.8b it contributes to the Australian economy.
And what is the Howard Government doing?
Malcolm Turnbull: "We are already well under way in developing an action plan with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority to help manage the impacts of climate change on the reef."
Really? After nearly 11 years in office, and with a toothless Greenhouse Office established a decade ago, the Government is only now developing an action plan?
Marvellous. Once again, Howard has overseen another reactionary policy piece, potentially too late, with no leadership or understanding of a serious issue which threatens Australia's future.
The challenge to Mr Howard is this: Can he ensure Australia takes a leadership position on climate change? Can he accept responsibility for some of the most beautiful and magnificent natural heritage areas in the world and the impact on the world if these are destroyed?
The answer is no on both counts. Only a Rudd Labor Government will provide leadership in the world community on climate change and take action to ensure the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef is protected for not only our grandchildren, but their grandchildren and those that follow.
People of Australia, the time is now.
After 6 years work, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change is currently finalising it's "Climate Change 2007" report, to be released in Paris on 2 February. In that report, it outlines a nightmare scenario for the Reef, depriving the world of one of its great wonders, and fundamentally affecting the $5.8b it contributes to the Australian economy.
And what is the Howard Government doing?
Malcolm Turnbull: "We are already well under way in developing an action plan with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority to help manage the impacts of climate change on the reef."
Really? After nearly 11 years in office, and with a toothless Greenhouse Office established a decade ago, the Government is only now developing an action plan?
Marvellous. Once again, Howard has overseen another reactionary policy piece, potentially too late, with no leadership or understanding of a serious issue which threatens Australia's future.
The challenge to Mr Howard is this: Can he ensure Australia takes a leadership position on climate change? Can he accept responsibility for some of the most beautiful and magnificent natural heritage areas in the world and the impact on the world if these are destroyed?
The answer is no on both counts. Only a Rudd Labor Government will provide leadership in the world community on climate change and take action to ensure the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef is protected for not only our grandchildren, but their grandchildren and those that follow.
People of Australia, the time is now.
Tuesday 30 January 2007
Hicks chained to the floor
I cannot believe that after five years, David Hicks is reportedly living 22 hours a day in his cell, chained to the floor.
If true, it is the most savage indictment of Mr Howard's time in office. How can Howard justify such a reprehensible action against a human being? It beggars belief that Howard can defend his position when Hicks' confinement goes against all human rights charters or fundamental justice laid out by the United Nations or any truly democratic country.
Get him out of there.
Now.
If not, history will judge your entire period as Prime Minister by this abhorrent inaction.
If true, it is the most savage indictment of Mr Howard's time in office. How can Howard justify such a reprehensible action against a human being? It beggars belief that Howard can defend his position when Hicks' confinement goes against all human rights charters or fundamental justice laid out by the United Nations or any truly democratic country.
Get him out of there.
Now.
If not, history will judge your entire period as Prime Minister by this abhorrent inaction.
The Experience Debate
People, let's address the debate about my experience head on.
Brian Loughnane has come out attacking my experience, and this is clearly a leading edge for the conservatives' attack ads as we approach the election.
But let's get this straight, I have very strong public policy and administration experience. For example:
* 22 years public administration experience
* Experience in policy development at Assistant Secretary level in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and experience in missions in Stockholm and Beijing
* Chief of Staff for the Queensland Premier
* Director-General of the Cabinet Office in Queensland
* China Consultant with KPMG
* 9 years in Parliament
Inexperienced? I think not. Again the conservatives are running scared, looking for any perceived negative they can latch on to and hope they can convince the electorate of.
This is not Mark Latham. Scare campaigns on interest rates or lack of experience will not work this time.
After nearly 11 years, the Australian people understand how the Howard government works: They react to policy concerns (global warming, water management etc), they drive campaigns of fear (Tampa, interest rates etc) and offer so-called security and comfort while those who are the worst off in our community go backwards, while education of our children suffers, while the needs of our aging population are given scant attention, while our national infrastructure ages and does not meet the needs of the community or business.
Should I go on???
Brian Loughnane has come out attacking my experience, and this is clearly a leading edge for the conservatives' attack ads as we approach the election.
But let's get this straight, I have very strong public policy and administration experience. For example:
* 22 years public administration experience
* Experience in policy development at Assistant Secretary level in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and experience in missions in Stockholm and Beijing
* Chief of Staff for the Queensland Premier
* Director-General of the Cabinet Office in Queensland
* China Consultant with KPMG
* 9 years in Parliament
Inexperienced? I think not. Again the conservatives are running scared, looking for any perceived negative they can latch on to and hope they can convince the electorate of.
This is not Mark Latham. Scare campaigns on interest rates or lack of experience will not work this time.
After nearly 11 years, the Australian people understand how the Howard government works: They react to policy concerns (global warming, water management etc), they drive campaigns of fear (Tampa, interest rates etc) and offer so-called security and comfort while those who are the worst off in our community go backwards, while education of our children suffers, while the needs of our aging population are given scant attention, while our national infrastructure ages and does not meet the needs of the community or business.
Should I go on???
Saturday 27 January 2007
Maximising the team's impact
As I said when Walt Secord came on board, we need to build a strong team that will help deliver the message in a succinct, emphatic way.
I'm pleased the addition of Maxine McKew to the team has aroused both excitement and grumbling charges of bias (aka scared of her impact) from the conservatives.
It's also refreshing to see the media showing support and helping us build momentum. We are finalising our baseline team and platform on which we can build in the future. Our traction is such that when the bounces inevitably come, they won't derail the team, the party or the campaign. This will just reinforce the Australian people's view of us as an entirely credible alternative government, capable of strength, vision and direction.
I warmly welcome Maxine and look forward to her intelligent input into our policy and communications strategies.
Thursday 25 January 2007
The Australia Day Ad
Look, I'm very proud of the new ad. I think it helps us establish a clear point of difference with the conservatives and drives home the education message.
The polls are still strong, my approval ratings are high and I'm close on Mr Howard's heels as preferred PM.
Enjoy Australia Day and please don't use the flag as a political, cultural or race weapon.
Tuesday 23 January 2007
Vanstone goes down; the, ah, cream rises to the top
At least Amanda made me laugh sometimes. She'll end up being some quasi-celeb on shows like Enough Rope. And her control of policy? Well, I wonder how much it was her stuff ups or Howard, Ruddock and Costello playing Punch and Judy...
And the new bunch? People, it's making me salivate with anticipation. Is this the team that is going to take Australia toward the second decade of the new millenium? I think not Mr Speaker.
Turnbull? A danger on water but too ambitiious for his own good. Can I suggest he's a barefoot skier? Very clever but it only takes one piece of flotsom and he's on his arse.
Hockey? Slo Jo
Robb? Dangerous as a machine man, but dull as a minister
Brandis? Rats anyone?
Scullion? Mmm, despation tactics to push the CLP vote up in the Northern Territory
So bring it on. Our team has the end to end strength to take on this lot and beat them at their own game.
And the new bunch? People, it's making me salivate with anticipation. Is this the team that is going to take Australia toward the second decade of the new millenium? I think not Mr Speaker.
Turnbull? A danger on water but too ambitiious for his own good. Can I suggest he's a barefoot skier? Very clever but it only takes one piece of flotsom and he's on his arse.
Hockey? Slo Jo
Robb? Dangerous as a machine man, but dull as a minister
Brandis? Rats anyone?
Scullion? Mmm, despation tactics to push the CLP vote up in the Northern Territory
So bring it on. Our team has the end to end strength to take on this lot and beat them at their own game.
Friday 19 January 2007
Gary Gray for Kim's seat of Brand
I'm pleased to be supporting Gary Gray in his nomination for pre-selection for Brand. What an addition to the team he will be. As with Bob McMullan, he is a former National Secretary of the ALP, so he understands how the party operates. Add to that his private sector and education experience and he will pack a mean punch in caucus and parliament.
Thursday 18 January 2007
Barack Obama's candidacy
I'm a keen observer of US Presidential Elections and the '08 battle is shaping up as a beauty. Given I will need to work closely with the next American President, I'm fascinated by the positioning for the Democratic nomination.
Barack Obama has effectively joined the fray and I must say I've been impressed with his approach so far. He comes across as a "real-person" politician who is strong on social justice and has been a vocal dissident against the US's involvement in Iraq.
One of Australia's brightest Economics stars, Dr Andrew Leigh, has recently published a review of Obama's latest book "The Audacity of Hope". As Dr Leigh points out, there are a number of difficulties Obama will face:
"If Obama hopes to be a serious contender for the Presidency, he will face a few challenges. One is his name. If it wasn’t enough that his surname is only a consonant away from the mastermind of the September 11 attacks, there is the fact that Obama’s middle name is Hussein. Will middle-America really vote for a man called Barack Hussein Obama to be the commander-in-chief of their armed forces?
Another challenge will be Obama’s candour about his past life. In Dreams from My Father, he wrote that in his youth, “Pot had helped, and booze; maybe a little blow when you could afford it” (“blow” is street slang for cocaine). How will US voters react to a man whose father was a Kenyan big man, and whose step-father is an Indonesian Muslim? What will they make of the suggestion that his grandparents left Texas in part because of their discomfort with small-town racism?
The rational part of me thinks that these kinks will probably derail the Obama train. When the barrage of attack ads begins (as it surely will), Obama is going to need more than appeals to decency and unity. But after you turn the last page of his book, it’s hard not to hope that Obama’s audacity will somehow inspire the best of America. "
I don't necessarily agree with all of Obama's positions on pro-choice, but he will make the primaries fascinating when up against the JFK-smile of John Edwards and the power and money of Hilary Clinton's campaign.
Whether any of them can overcome a John McCain Republican nomination is yet to be seen, although for the sake of progressive politics I hope so.
Finally, the eerie similarities between this election and The West Wing continue with Obama as Matt Santos and McCain as the moderate Republican Arnold Vinick.
Wednesday 17 January 2007
The Spinning Top
Any leader worth a pinch of salt puts together a strong team that can help deliver the agenda. That's why I've engaged Walt Secord as Communications Director.
Walt has a fine record in providing clear messages to the electorate and developing strong relationships with the media and I look forward to working with him closely.
And if Walt can provide the same fearless advice as Toby Ziegler on The West Wing (without the national security leaks) then we'll be in good shape.
Walt has a fine record in providing clear messages to the electorate and developing strong relationships with the media and I look forward to working with him closely.
And if Walt can provide the same fearless advice as Toby Ziegler on The West Wing (without the national security leaks) then we'll be in good shape.
Tuesday 16 January 2007
Couture and criticism
Look, if I'm going to have a press conference, I'm going to dress up for it. It annoys me that I get criticised for being well dressed. Yes I'm holidays, but what do you expect? If I lobbed up in some boardies and a Billabong t-shirt, people would say I wasn't taking my role seriously. I am, after all, the alternative Prime Minister.
Monday 15 January 2007
It's a disaster...
...centre.
And that is what we need in Northern Australia. What better way to demonstrate our commitment to the people of northern Australia and our close neighbours - the ability to respond quickly to a natural disaster. We know it's not a case of if a crisis occurs but a matter of when.
Let's be prepared for Australia's needs and at the same time, provide a service to countries like Indonesia that will be highly appreciated.
And that is what we need in Northern Australia. What better way to demonstrate our commitment to the people of northern Australia and our close neighbours - the ability to respond quickly to a natural disaster. We know it's not a case of if a crisis occurs but a matter of when.
Let's be prepared for Australia's needs and at the same time, provide a service to countries like Indonesia that will be highly appreciated.
Rudd's radicals
What a laugh. I see the Conservatives are launching an attack on my team, accusing them of being "radicals".
This smacks of another desperation tactic from the Libs, and one that I look forward to combating in the weeks and months ahead.
The simple fact is that we have a highly talented team, with experience across a wide range of disciplines, a team that is intelligent, thoughtful and considered. It's certainly not a team of Marxists looking to overthrow the state or "replicate the economies of France and Germany under a "social democratic" model and be governed by the ideas of leftists such as Noam Chomsky."
This is Australia Christopher. Australian ideas for Australian people. Simple as that.
This smacks of another desperation tactic from the Libs, and one that I look forward to combating in the weeks and months ahead.
The simple fact is that we have a highly talented team, with experience across a wide range of disciplines, a team that is intelligent, thoughtful and considered. It's certainly not a team of Marxists looking to overthrow the state or "replicate the economies of France and Germany under a "social democratic" model and be governed by the ideas of leftists such as Noam Chomsky."
This is Australia Christopher. Australian ideas for Australian people. Simple as that.
Friday 12 January 2007
Shhhhhhh, it's a secret
President Bush has finally announced his plan to fix Iraq, a floored treatise on the folly of ultimate power. Rightly, he discussed the plan with Mr Howard prior to its public release. And what does Howard do? Nothing. A big fat zero.
Where is our strategic plan for engagement in Iraq? What does Howard intend to do? Does he intend to actually do anything? As I said yesterday at a doorstop interview:
"So, it’s okay for Mr Howard to have a private conversation with President Bush about future strategy for Iraq but he won’t tell the Australian people what our future strategy for Iraq will be in our own right. This is simply unacceptable. It’s nearly four years since this war began. A war initiated by the United States and supported by Mr Howard. And yet, still as of today, we have no clear-cut statement of the mission statement. No clear-cut statement as to what the future strategy will be.
My challenge to Mr Howard is this: if you’re having a conversation with President Bush about future Coalition strategy for Iraq, please also now have a conversation with the Australian people about future strategy for Iraq.
The challenge more basically is this: what is Mr Howard’s strategy for winning the war in Iraq? Our troops have been there for a long, long time. He says that they’ll be there for an indefinite period. What is the strategy therefore under which those troops are deployed?"
Tell the Australian people now Mr Howard. Or perhaps, you can't tell them because there is no plan. There is no strategy. Perhaps there is only politics, the politics of the vague and clever.
Where is our strategic plan for engagement in Iraq? What does Howard intend to do? Does he intend to actually do anything? As I said yesterday at a doorstop interview:
"So, it’s okay for Mr Howard to have a private conversation with President Bush about future strategy for Iraq but he won’t tell the Australian people what our future strategy for Iraq will be in our own right. This is simply unacceptable. It’s nearly four years since this war began. A war initiated by the United States and supported by Mr Howard. And yet, still as of today, we have no clear-cut statement of the mission statement. No clear-cut statement as to what the future strategy will be.
My challenge to Mr Howard is this: if you’re having a conversation with President Bush about future Coalition strategy for Iraq, please also now have a conversation with the Australian people about future strategy for Iraq.
The challenge more basically is this: what is Mr Howard’s strategy for winning the war in Iraq? Our troops have been there for a long, long time. He says that they’ll be there for an indefinite period. What is the strategy therefore under which those troops are deployed?"
Tell the Australian people now Mr Howard. Or perhaps, you can't tell them because there is no plan. There is no strategy. Perhaps there is only politics, the politics of the vague and clever.
Thursday 11 January 2007
Garrett for PM!
Rob Hirst was on JJJ this morning talking about his Bulletin article on his mate Pete's future as PM.
In his world of 2011, Hirst sees me still at the helm after beating Howard narrowly at the 2007 election. He describes me as "the decent, Christian linguist" which I'll cop - it's accurate if a bit dull.
Pete would make a great PM sometime in the 2010's but I'd like to make a small point - he's actually older than I am (he turns 54 in April), meaning he would be in the Howard age group when he came to power. I find that interesting given the public's perception of him as a young-person's politician. But hey, if Mick Jagger can still strut the stage, literally, at 63, then surely Pete can ascend to the emperor's chair sometime in his 60's.
In his world of 2011, Hirst sees me still at the helm after beating Howard narrowly at the 2007 election. He describes me as "the decent, Christian linguist" which I'll cop - it's accurate if a bit dull.
Pete would make a great PM sometime in the 2010's but I'd like to make a small point - he's actually older than I am (he turns 54 in April), meaning he would be in the Howard age group when he came to power. I find that interesting given the public's perception of him as a young-person's politician. But hey, if Mick Jagger can still strut the stage, literally, at 63, then surely Pete can ascend to the emperor's chair sometime in his 60's.
Wednesday 10 January 2007
Conservatives fighting amongst themselves
I love it when the Conservatives fight amongst themselves. Vaile has come out dismissing Hewson's attack, but if they're fighting off attacks from their own side, they're not focusing on our agenda. This government is old and tired, devoid of fresh policy. They've had nearly 11 years. Enough is enough.
What does a leader do on his honeymoon?
The poor Libs. They're getting all sooky at my honeymoon ratings. I realise it will ease up eventually but the Libs are starting to run scared because we're driving the policy agenda. Look at our approach to independent contractors (those aspirational "ute" voters who want to vote for us but haven't had the incentive to do so in the past), look at the childcare debate etc etc.
What does a leader do on his honeymoon? Focus, focus, focus and ensure that the initial message and image the public receives resonates well past any so-called honeymoon period.
What does a leader do on his honeymoon? Focus, focus, focus and ensure that the initial message and image the public receives resonates well past any so-called honeymoon period.
Tuesday 9 January 2007
Monday 8 January 2007
Two-Tier Government
People are asking me if I'll go all the way and establish a 2 tier government structure in Australia?
Crikey! The people in Queensland would surely lynch me. It's all very well for Rockhampton to have a strong regional government but who would you barrack for in the State of Origin? Surely not Capricornia!
Crikey! The people in Queensland would surely lynch me. It's all very well for Rockhampton to have a strong regional government but who would you barrack for in the State of Origin? Surely not Capricornia!
Post-New Year Polls
Well, let's get straight into it. The polls are looking terrific and people are saying very kind things about me:
“I like Rudd’s style and I agree with his opposition to the IR laws. I believe he will introduce social equality and I agree with his stance on Iraq. He will put balance back in the system in light of the IR laws, Iraq, ‘non-core’ promises and social disintegration.”
“Hopefully Rudd can get us out of the mess in Iraq and hopefully he can bring a bit of morality back into Australian politics as there has been a moral decline. The Government has impinged on Australians human rights and I don’t like the way they have treated the Muslim community.”
“Howard has been there for a while and Rudd will bring a new perspective to the job.”
“I think Howard is a dishonest person, as well as being unfair towards workers. Basically, the rich are getting richer — he’s only increasing the gap between the haves and have-nots.”
“I think Rudd is young, energetic, measured, talented and doesn’t shoot his mouth off without thinking first.”
“Rudd will bring a change and something new.”
“He is down to earth and appears to know what he is talking about.”
“He is more of a people’s person with values and appears to be honest in what he says.”
And that's the crux of it - people are recognising me for what I hope I come across as - a straight shooter, someone who will bring a measured, dignified approach to leadership and be inclusive when it comes to policy.
Now for the hard part - convincing enough of the voters in enough of the marginals they will have a better future with a Rudd-led Labor government.
“I like Rudd’s style and I agree with his opposition to the IR laws. I believe he will introduce social equality and I agree with his stance on Iraq. He will put balance back in the system in light of the IR laws, Iraq, ‘non-core’ promises and social disintegration.”
“Hopefully Rudd can get us out of the mess in Iraq and hopefully he can bring a bit of morality back into Australian politics as there has been a moral decline. The Government has impinged on Australians human rights and I don’t like the way they have treated the Muslim community.”
“Howard has been there for a while and Rudd will bring a new perspective to the job.”
“I think Howard is a dishonest person, as well as being unfair towards workers. Basically, the rich are getting richer — he’s only increasing the gap between the haves and have-nots.”
“I think Rudd is young, energetic, measured, talented and doesn’t shoot his mouth off without thinking first.”
“Rudd will bring a change and something new.”
“He is down to earth and appears to know what he is talking about.”
“He is more of a people’s person with values and appears to be honest in what he says.”
And that's the crux of it - people are recognising me for what I hope I come across as - a straight shooter, someone who will bring a measured, dignified approach to leadership and be inclusive when it comes to policy.
Now for the hard part - convincing enough of the voters in enough of the marginals they will have a better future with a Rudd-led Labor government.
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