Political optimism is in short supply these days. Media coverage is bleak. This Queensland state election has become a saga of personal attacks between political parties, and sometimes I have to ask myself if some politicians are running for parliament or fighting over crayons.
The general atmosphere is that this election Queenslanders will be voting for lesser of two evils. The Liberal Nationals have been accused of corruption and inaction and Labor lacks a clear and coherent plan for the state.
So what’s the point in voting? I personally consider myself a bit of a democracy fan girl – even more so in light of the recent attacks on western ideology. Even though I’m not particularly thrilled that leaders haven’t focussed their Qld campaigns on serious issues, I still believe that the majority of candidates in this election genuinely care about the future of our great state.
Instead of dwelling on the negative coverage in the media, I’ve sought out information on local state members and the great work that they’re doing, specifically my local state MP Rob Molhoek. In his first term in state parliament he displayed a passion for expanding health care services and the number of nurses on the Gold Coast has now increased to 498. If re-elected on the 31st he has plans to reduce congestion by upgrading two major roads and five intersections, and also promises to continue his support of local sports clubs. It’s the local heroes that make our state of Queensland great, not the nasty rhetoric between party leaders.
Let’s not look at this election as deciding on the lesser of two evils, but an opportunity to recognise the potential of our local state MPs to make a positive difference in their constituencies. Let’s vote responsibly and think about whom we want representing our local voice in Queensland’s parliament.
Voting is now open at Queensland House in central London, weekdays 9am – 6pm until the 31st January. Before attending it is advised to check you are enrolled to vote.
IMAGE: Queensland Premiere Campbell Newman. (Photo by Glenn Hunt/Getty Images)