OPINION
Dai Le
The rise of independent and minor party voices is directly tied to the way ordinary people now access information. The internet has broken down barriers that once protected the political status quo. The major parties are struggling to adjust. Rather than engaging honestly, some have tried to limit this new openness. A recent example was Labor’s misguided and poorly communicated Misinformation and Disinformation Bill.
I opposed the Bill not only because it posed a threat to free speech and open debate, but also because it was so poorly written it risked spreading confusion rather than clarity.
That same attitude – one of control over candour, of theatre over truth – has unfortunately shaped much of Labor’s approach to Western Sydney. Here in Fowler, we’re seeing policies and announcements dressed up as major progress, but which deliver little.
Take the announcement of a so-called Western Sydney University in Fairfield. Ministers Jason Clare and Chris Bowen presented it as a game-changer. But behind the headlines is something far less substantial: Fairfield Connect – a small study hub with desks, computers, and internet access. It’s no substitute for a real university campus. The people of Fairfield deserve genuine access to higher education not token representation.
We’ve seen this same pattern elsewhere. On 10 March, the Minister for Social Services issued a press release celebrating a “financial boost” for people on income support. But in reality, this was just the routine twiceyearly indexation that’s occurred under every government since 1983. It was presented as new support, when it was simply the bare minimum.
Then came the “tax cuts” in the recent budget a minor refund of money already collected, delayed for more than a year, and offered as a bold act of relief. These all may sound impressive at first glance, but they don’t hold up under scrutiny. And scrutiny is exactly what voters are doing now. To the Albanese government, and to all sides of politics: the people of Fowler are watching. We are thoughtful, informed, and ready to hold those in power to account. Don’t underestimate us. Don’t take us for granted.
Dai Le is the independent member for Fowler
Source: Drop the fakery and get realistic | The Daily Telegraph