Australia's Parliament- our "Gravy Train"

The term "Gravy Train" as applied to our parliament and government-, may be interpreted as harsh and critical, but the writer is using this slang term with intent. Since the inception of our Federation and the establishment of our " Constitution", the early years were possibly effective and constructive. Unfortunately, the Colonial politicians who created our new Nation, although they may have been acting with good and sincere intent initially, soon started to realise that they effectively controlled the nation and became aware that self- benefit was inherent and available.

Initially, those politicians who were elected to represent the interests of the nation, very soon succumbed to the temptations of those vested interests, of the landed persons and business people, who were, in the main, only self- interested, and did not honestly care, for the interests of the people. Political parties were formed as the means to achieving government, and were probably justified, similar to the parliamentary practices in Westminster and the USA.

Democracy was the standard by which we wished to live and be governed. In the years leading up to the 2nd. World War, it could be said that we were reasonably well governed during those years. Despite the huge difficulties prevailing!

Unfortunately, in the years that followed, we have seen the growing dishonesty and deceit of the parties, resulting in the cost of running government-, exploding to the level of legal corruption, which is now almost endemic. Apart from the generous salaries and allowances that they receive, they all enjoy election time. This is the time they can claim refund of so-called campaign expenses. The funds they can claim, come mostly from donations received from vested interests, such as the fossil fuel industry. Let's not forget the rampant Gambling industry. Every time our governments (either Parties) finally accept the challenge, of legislating to address matters of public importance, they invariably moderate the eventual bill to ensure their party interests are securely protected. Almost always at the expense of those minor parties, or more latterly the independents, who are legally disadvantaged, particularly at their expense.

Recent bills that have become enacted, show clearly these results. The current gambling bills that are in process at this time, are demonstrating the fact, by this government, that the much- vaunted "Peta Murphy report" supposedly embraced by almost everyone in parliament, is now being denigrated. The excellent address by the member for Indi-, to parliament on August 12 /26, is a very significant statement of this matter. God help us!