Something to believe in
I am worried for future generations, the current trajectory of our country, and in fact, our world.
I shake my head in despair when I look at the state of our country, and the wasteland that our leaders have created because of their thoughtless betrayal of the people they were entrusted to protect. We are a nation rich in resources and even richer in human spirit.
We should not be worried about being able to afford a home, or getting a job, or being able to get ahead with hard work and dedication. It should not be this way.
We should not be a nation and a people bound by fear.
Successive leaders have let us down.
When I was a kid, I remember listening to politicians spout their lines about making the country a better place and wondering whether they actually believed in what they were saying. And the truth is, many of them don’t. They spout talking points written by staffers who have never paid an electricity bill, or gone hungry in order to pay the rent. They have no idea what it is like to build something; to put your heart and soul into a business, to climb mountains of red-tape in order to reinforce the foundations forged by those who came before us. To sacrifice and struggle in order to protect your family and make this nation a better place.
The truth is, our leaders have betrayed us all.
I believe that every person in our country should be proud of the people we have chosen to represent us – not just be forced into a position where we choose the ‘least worst’ option.
It has to stop.
We have to raise the bar and demand better. Australia deserves excellence.
I believe that our country should be a place where families thrive in peace and security. Where the basics are always affordable, and it is never a struggle to put a roof over our heads. Where those who do not share our values are prevented from destroying all that made our civilisation what it is. Where human flourishing is central to all decision making, and innovation and human creativity is encouraged and embraced. Where kids can be kids, and every man and woman is valued – whether it be a stay at home mum, a nurse, factory worker or a business owner. Where no family is forced to choose between paying an electricity bill or feeding the kids.
A nation that is strong in community and spirit.
I want us to stand tall and proud, and fearless in the face of adversaries, both within our borders and abroad.
I believe we can do better and be all we can be - a strong and prosperous Australia where our leaders serve the people and not themselves.
A nation of people called to action in service to each other.
A nation of freedom.
Now, that is something to believe in.